Abstract
To view methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) globally, it is necessary to accumulate data on MMT policy implementation under different health service systems. The aim of the current study is to provide empirical evidence about policy implementation of MMT and HIV infection control, as well as recommendations for improvement of MMT in the future. Based on China’s national policy framework of MMT, policy implementation of MMT in Hubei province has two objectives: 1) to create linkages between health and public security, and 2) to provide integrated services for management of drug abusers. From 2007 to 2011, following the establishment of MMT clinics that provide methadone as well as HIV prevention services, the proportion of HIV infection among drug abusers decreased relatively quickly (12.12% → 5.77% → 5.19% → 2.39% → 2.04%). However, high drop-out rate and poor information management have been identified as particular problems which now need to be addressed. Furthermore, client drop-out from MMT programs may reflect social issues the clients encounter, and consequently, sustainable MMT development requires incorporation of social measures that help MMT clients return to society without discrimination, especially through family cooperation and employment opportunities.
Highlights
Addiction to heroin and other opioids poses serious problems for individuals, families, and communities as well as society as a whole
Following the national policy framework of maintenance treatment (MMT) enacted for five years (2006–2011), policy implementation of MMT in Hubei province has two objectives: 1) to create linkages between health and private security, and 2) to provide integrated services for managing drug abusers
Following the national policy framework of MMT in 2003, nowadays, drug abuse in Hubei province is managed by community MMT, which is led by health departments that link health and public security
Summary
Addiction to heroin and other opioids poses serious problems for individuals, families, and communities as well as society as a whole. Following the national policy framework of MMT enacted for five years (2006–2011), policy implementation of MMT in Hubei province has two objectives: 1) to create linkages between health and private security, and 2) to provide integrated services for managing drug abusers. Following the national policy framework of MMT in 2003, nowadays, drug abuse in Hubei province is managed by community MMT, which is led by health departments that link health and public security. Problems identified in MMT treatment program in Hubei province, China MMT effectively reduces drug abuse and prevents new HIV infections, there are two problems worth noting, namely the high drop-out rate and the poor information collection on and management of MMT clients. Barriers to information and evidence accumulation may not be information technology itself, but rather the lack of awareness, especially the value of this information and the planning, design and implementation of information management
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