Perceptions of Dutch primary health care providers regarding alcohol health warning labels: A qualitative study

Aims: Alcohol contributes to 2,6 million deaths globally. A promising policy option to address this health burden is the use of health warning labels on alcoholic products. However, the important perspectives of primary healthcare providers on this strategy have not been investigated until now. This study explored Dutch primary healthcare providers perspectives on alcohol health warning labels in general, and in particular on their content and format, and their influence on alcohol-related professional practices. Methods: This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with Dutch primary healthcare providers aged 18-67 years. Participants were recruited via convenience sampling. A coding scheme was developed guided by the I-Change Model. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Themes were predetermined using the I-Change Model and adapted according to the data. Results: Thirteen Dutch primary healthcare providers were included. Results showed that although most participants doubted the effectiveness of alcohol health warning labels in changing consumers behavior, the majority supported their use and believed they would influence consumers’ awareness of alcohol-related risks. For the content and format, they preferred a specific, clear, and a more visible label. Participants believed health warning labels would positively impact their alcohol discussions with patients. Conclusion:Primary healthcare providers generally support alcohol health warning policies, and these labels may positively influence their discussion of alcohol with patients. They should be considered important stakeholders in strengthening label policies.