Change in the profile of the service utilizers of a community-based drug treatment clinic: a retrospective study from India

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Community-based drug treatment clinics (CB-DTC) aim to reduce the barriers to treatment-seeking among substance users. Literature is lacking in assessing the change in the profile of the clients seeking treatment from the CB-DTC over time. The current study aimed to assess the change in the profile of the service utilizers of a CB-DTC located in an urban slum in the northern part of India. Methods A retrospective chart review of the profile of the patients (n = 631) who were enrolled at a CB-DTC at two different periods (n = 330, 2003; n = 301, 2017). Results As compared to 2003, enrolees of 2017 had better socio-demographic profiles; earlier age of initiation of substance use and early treatment-seeking (p < .0001); relatively higher prevalence of alcohol (p < .0001) and volatile substance-dependence (p < .001); lower prevalence of opioid dependence (p < .0001); and lower prevalence of substance-related complications (injection drug use, illegal activities, and broken families) (p < .001). However, there was no difference in prevalence of high-risk sexual behaviors (HRSB) and polysubstance use. Conclusion Changing profile of the service utilizers of the CB-DTC reflect the changing dynamics of the substance use pattern and the putative role a CB-DTC can play. Interventions need to be tailored to address these changing requirements.