Understanding your organization’s readiness is about determining the aspects of your current practices and procedures that are likely to facilitate the implementation of SBIRT, as well as the aspects that may be problematic or create barriers to successful SBIRT implementation.

Though many organizations focus on materials (e.g., preparing electronic health records), organizational readiness may also
include changing or shifting attitudes about how alcohol and substances play a role in your consumers’ lives. Stigma or implicit biases can make implementing new programs challenging.

Readiness can be assessed with formalized tools (e.g., surveys) or through key informant interviews/focus groups. The benefit of utilizing a survey is that it is inclusive of all staff and can support identification of themes.

By assessing organizational readiness, an SBIRT team can have a better understanding of whether individuals, units, and the organization itself are prepared to make the commitment and take the steps necessary for successful SBIRT implementation. Learn more about each aspect of readiness by clicking on the terms below.

Here are two examples of readiness tools:

1. Texas Christian University: Medical Organization Readiness for Change (TCU/MORC) and,


2. Integrated Care Readiness Assessment (adapted with permission from the “Integrated Behavioral Health Survey” developed by Bill McFeature, Kirk Strosahl, and Joseph Hyde, Radford University).

It’s important to remember that leadership may exhibit strong readiness to adopt and apply SBIRT while other staff may not. Developing readiness requires an understanding of change within an organization and the willingness to discuss needs openly.

Once readiness strengths are identified and areas of need are pinpointed, organizations can work to bolster areas of weakness while leveraging strengths. Often this readiness process strengthens organizations beyond the SBIRT process. Improving communication, understanding each other’s strengths, and developing trust will benefit the organization at every level.