Project Grant K23AA033444

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism awarded the University of Colorado-Denver $191,592 on August 19, 2026, under the Alcohol Research Programs (CFDA 93.273) to support a five-year mentored research project on enhancing emergency department care for alcohol use disorder.

Dr. Jacob Lebin will develop and test an electronic health record-embedded clinical decision support tool designed to improve identification and treatment of alcohol use disorder in emergency department settings. The project uses a user-centered design approach and implementation science framework to iteratively develop and evaluate a clinical decision support system that integrates medications for alcohol use disorder—naltrexone and acamprosate—and social work interventions into routine emergency department workflows. Study activities include qualitative investigation through patient interviews and clinician focus groups to identify key components and intuitive language for the tool, and development and iterative optimization of an EHR-based prototype using rapid-cycle, user-centered design methods. The project supports Dr. Lebin's career development and transition to research independence as an independent health services researcher.

Performance occurs in Aurora, Colorado, with an ultimate completion date of July 31, 2031. This is a Project Grant, a form of assistance funding under the Alcohol Research Programs, which supports fundamental knowledge development applicable to improved treatment methods and prevention strategies for alcoholism and alcohol-related problems.