What is a primary disadvantage of the CAGE assessment?

The primary disadvantage of the CAGE assessment being that it does not ask about time frame is significant because understanding the context of a patient's substance use over a specific period can be crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The absence of a time frame in the assessment can lead to incomplete information about the severity and progression of substance use, thus limiting its effectiveness in evaluating an individual’s situation.

While other concerns, such as the length of the assessment or the number of questions, might also affect its usability, the specific issue of time framing is critical in substance use assessments as it directly relates to identifying patterns of behavior. Without such context, clinicians may miss important details necessary for making informed decisions regarding treatment and intervention strategies.