This study summarizes the association between medical amnesty policy (MAP) implementation and drinking behaviors at a 4-year university.
First-year students (N = 1,246; 50.8% male) were assessed in the academic year pre- (2009–2010, n = 571) and post-implementation (2010–2011, n = 675). A cohort-sequential design was used. Students were assessed at college entry and end of year. Self-report measures assessed recent alcohol use, physiological consequences, and helping behaviors specific to alcohol-related medical emergencies.
MAP implementation did not increase drinking, overall consumption, or the incidence of physiological consequences. Modest increases in contacting residence life staff in the event of an emergency were also found.
This study provides empirical support that MAP policies do not increase consumption or problems and may reduce barriers to seeking help in the event of an emergency. Additional research is needed to establish the effectiveness of MAPs as an environmental-level strategy to reduce harmful drinking on campus.
