Presentation to Lanarkshire ADAT 2nd April 2004 A Service Users Perspective on Methadone Prescribing

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Presentation to Lanarkshire ADAT 2nd April
2004A Service Users Perspective on Methadone
PrescribingStuart Anderson
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Current Programme

• Good intervention for those who use it correctly
• Stabilises drug use, lifestyle, reduces crime
• But considered as only option
• Not enough options when prescribed too long
• Lack of support when detoxing
• Lack of options/opportunities for detox
• Mainly worker led

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Alternatives and Choices

• Client led Worker advised
• Look at range of alternatives
• Long/Short Term/Subutex Naltrexone/Lofexidine/Co
  ld turkey/Symptamatic detox/Community or
  Residential rehab
• Range of alternatives should be available to all
  to decide which course of action is best way
  forward

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Practical Improvements

• Accessing
• Provision of Drop In for information and advice
• Better use of Needle Exchange
• Staying
• Having options presented and empowering
  individual to decide best options and treatment
• Feeling as though progressing see something to
  move on to
• Having agreed targets in place (Testing/Reduction
  s/Care plan and Reviews)
• Clients needs and wishes listened to
• Leaving
• Support to move onto
• Care plan agreed with individual, planned and
  realistic
• Relapse Prevention
• Use of peer support/aftercare groups (NA, AA,
  CASSI etc)

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Questions ?