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Giang LM, Trang NT, Hoe HD, Anh NH, Thuy DTT, Bart G. "If they get out of drug rehab centers, they're on their own": Opportunities and challenges for people released from compulsory drug rehabilitation centers to communities in Vietnam. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 128:104443. [PMID: 38743963 PMCID: PMC11213659 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Compulsory drug rehabilitation is a major governmental response to illicit drug use in Vietnam and other countries in Asia. Long-term compulsory rehabilitation is associated with negative health, social and economic outcomes. The transition to community-based services for people released from compulsory drug rehabilitation has been problematic not only in Vietnam. This study utilized the WHO Health System Building Blocks Framework to examine the opportunities and challenges for people with substance use disorders (SUD) who are released from compulsory drug rehabilitation back into the community. METHODS Between October 2021 and August 2022, we interviewed people with SUD who had recently returned from or were preparing to leave compulsory drug rehabilitation (n = 25), their family members (n = 20) and professionals working in the field of drug rehabilitation (n = 28) across three cities in Vietnam. Additionally, we conducted a review of policy documents to complement the interview data. RESULTS The study identified opportunities and challenges within Vietnam's drug rehabilitation system concerning leadership and governance, financing, workforce, information systems and service delivery for people with SUD. Key opportunities include a legal framework that emphasizes community-based support for people with SUD, a government-funded national network of lay social workers, and ongoing efforts to connect people to community-based services. We found significant challenges caused by the lack of clear instructions for implementing supportive policies, inadequate funding for community-based services, persisting stigma from providers towards people with SUD and unavailability of community-based drug treatment other than methadone. CONCLUSION Vietnam continues with compulsory drug rehabilitation yet endorses recovery-oriented policies to address substance use issues. Substantial challenges hinder the effective implementation of these policies. Our study recommends reinforcing existing policies and enhancing recovery-oriented community-based services by improving the quality of data collection, building capacity of lay social workers who facilitate linkages to services and expanding community-based drug treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Minh Giang
- Center for Training and Research on Substance Use & HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thu Trang
- Center for Training and Research on Substance Use & HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam.
| | - Han Dinh Hoe
- Center for Training and Research on Substance Use & HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Huu Anh
- Center for Training and Research on Substance Use & HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam
| | - Dinh Thi Thanh Thuy
- Center for Training and Research on Substance Use & HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam
| | - Gavin Bart
- Division of Addiction Medicine, Hennepin Healthcare and University of Minnesota Medical School, United States
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Austin EJ, O'Brien QE, Ruiz MS, Ratzliff AD, Williams EC, Koch U. Patient and Provider Perspectives on Processes of Engagement in Outpatient Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder: A Scoping Review. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:330-339. [PMID: 37668745 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01175-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) is available, but patient engagement is central to achieving care outcomes. We conducted a scoping review to describe patient and provider-reported strategies that may contribute to patient engagement in outpatient OUD care delivery. We searched PubMed and Scopus for articles reporting patient and/or provider experiences with outpatient OUD care delivery. Analysis included: (1) describing specific engagement strategies, (2) mapping strategies to patient-centered care domains, and (3) identifying themes that characterize the relationship between engagement and patient-centered care. Of 3,222 articles screened, 30 articles met inclusion criteria. Analysis identified 14 actionable strategies that facilitate patient engagement and map to all patient-centered care domains. Seven themes emerged that characterize interpersonal approaches to OUD care engagement. Interpersonal interactions between patients and providers play a pivotal role in encouraging engagement throughout OUD treatment. Future research is needed to further evaluate promising engagement strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Austin
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Box 351621, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA.
- Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C, USA.
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C, USA.
| | - Quentin E O'Brien
- Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Monica S Ruiz
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Anna D Ratzliff
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Advancing Integrated Mental Health Solutions (AIMS) Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Emily C Williams
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Box 351621, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
- Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Health Services Research & Development, VA Puget Sound, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ulrich Koch
- Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, D.C, USA
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Giang LM, Trang NT, Thuy DT, Nguyen HH, Diep NB, Van HTH, Truc TT, Reback CJ, Li M, Van Dung D, Shoptaw S. Using ADAPT-ITT framework to tailor evidence-based interventions for addressing methamphetamine use among methadone patients in Vietnam. Drug Alcohol Rev 2023; 42:1667-1679. [PMID: 37614129 PMCID: PMC10848814 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Methamphetamine use threatens positive treatment outcomes in substance use and HIV, for people with opioid use disorders (POUD) in many countries. This paper describes the adaptation of four evidence-based interventions (EBI) (motivational interviewing, contingency management, Matrix group model and SMS text messaging) for treating methamphetamine use among POUD receiving methadone maintenance therapy in Vietnam. METHODS Following the ADAPT-ITT (Assessment-Decision-Administration-Production-Topical experts-Training-Testing) framework, we conducted 16 focus group discussions with POUD (n = 25) and providers (n = 22) at four methadone clinics in two largest cities (Hanoi in the North, Ho Chi Minh City in the South) to assess patterns of methamphetamine use and to get feedback on proposed EBIs. The proposed EBIs were properly adapted and used to train providers in two of the four methadone clinics. The revised EBIs were tested over 12 weeks among 42 POUD on methadone who use methamphetamine. Post-intervention feedback served to fine-tune the revised EBIs. RESULTS Insights about patterns of methamphetamine use suggested that EBIs should focus on different triggers to methamphetamine use among POUD receiving methadone treatment in the two cities. All EBIs should emphasise family-related topics to build a strong motivation for treatment. Participants suggested when, where and how each EBI should be delivered. Most participants were satisfied with the adapted EBIs. Limited human resources at methadone clinics might hinder implementation of the adapted EBIs. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS We successfully completed the adaptation of EBIs for POUD who use methamphetamine on methadone in Vietnam. The pilot testing of the adapted EBIs demonstrated feasibility and acceptability. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT04706624. Registered 13 January 2021. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04706624.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Minh Giang
- Centre for Training and Research on Substance use and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thu Trang
- Centre for Training and Research on Substance use and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dinh Thanh Thuy
- Centre for Training and Research on Substance use and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hoa H. Nguyen
- Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Bich Diep
- Centre for Training and Research on Substance use and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Thai Thanh Truc
- Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Cathy J. Reback
- Friends Research Institute, Friends Community Center, Center for HIV Identification, Prevention and Treatment Services, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Michael Li
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Do Van Dung
- Faculty of Public Health, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Adams A, Blawatt S, Magel T, MacDonald S, Lajeunesse J, Harrison S, Byres D, Schechter MT, Oviedo-Joekes E. The impact of relaxing restrictions on take-home doses during the COVID-19 pandemic on program effectiveness and client experiences in opioid agonist treatment: a mixed methods systematic review. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:56. [PMID: 37777766 PMCID: PMC10543348 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00564-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic led to an unprecedented relaxation of restrictions on take-home doses in opioid agonist treatment (OAT). We conducted a mixed methods systematic review to explore the impact of these changes on program effectiveness and client experiences in OAT. METHODS The protocol for this review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022352310). From Aug.-Nov. 2022, we searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Web of Science, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, and the grey literature. We included studies reporting quantitative measures of retention in treatment, illicit substance use, overdose, client health, quality of life, or treatment satisfaction or using qualitative methods to examine client experiences with take-home doses during the pandemic. We critically appraised studies using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. We synthesized quantitative data using vote-counting by direction of effect and presented the results in harvest plots. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic synthesis. We used a convergent segregated approach to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings. RESULTS Forty studies were included. Most were from North America (23/40) or the United Kingdom (9/40). The quantitative synthesis was limited by potential for confounding, but suggested an association between take-home doses and increased retention in treatment. There was no evidence of an association between take-home doses and illicit substance use or overdose. Qualitative findings indicated that take-home doses reduced clients' exposure to unregulated substances and stigma and minimized work/treatment conflicts. Though some clients reported challenges with managing their medication, the dominant narrative was one of appreciation, reduced anxiety, and a renewed sense of agency and identity. The integrated analysis suggested reduced treatment burden as an explanation for improved retention and revealed variation in individual relationships between take-home doses and illicit substance use. We identified a critical gap in quantitative measures of patient-important outcomes. CONCLUSION The relaxation of restrictions on take-home doses was associated with improved client experience and retention in OAT. We found no evidence of an association with illicit substance use or overdose, despite the expansion of take-home doses to previously ineligible groups. Including patient-important outcome measures in policy, program development, and treatment planning is essential to ensuring that decisions around take-home doses accurately reflect their value to clients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Adams
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Outcome Sciences, Providence Health Care, St. Paul's Hospital, 575-1081 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Sarin Blawatt
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Outcome Sciences, Providence Health Care, St. Paul's Hospital, 575-1081 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Tianna Magel
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Scott MacDonald
- Providence Health Care, Providence Crosstown Clinic, 84 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BCV6B 1G6, Canada
| | - Julie Lajeunesse
- Providence Health Care, Providence Crosstown Clinic, 84 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BCV6B 1G6, Canada
| | - Scott Harrison
- Providence Health Care, Providence Crosstown Clinic, 84 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BCV6B 1G6, Canada
| | - David Byres
- Provincial Health Services Authority, 200-1333 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC, V6H 4C1, Canada
| | - Martin T Schechter
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Outcome Sciences, Providence Health Care, St. Paul's Hospital, 575-1081 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Eugenia Oviedo-Joekes
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Outcome Sciences, Providence Health Care, St. Paul's Hospital, 575-1081 Burrard St., Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z3, Canada.
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Nguyen HTT, Dinh DX. Opioid relapse and its predictors among methadone maintenance patients: a multicenter, cross-sectional study in Vietnam. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:136. [PMID: 37717002 PMCID: PMC10505306 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00872-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid relapse, one of the common and severe problems during methadone maintenance treatment, can give rise to poor treatment outcomes. This study measured the opioid relapse rate and its associated factors among methadone maintenance patients in Vietnam. METHODS Information about the demographic characteristics and social support of 655 patients was collected through direct interviews. Medical records were used to gather data on treatment characteristics. Relapse was determined via urine opioid test results. RESULTS The overall relapse rate of patients during treatment was 13.1%. According to the multivariate logistic regression model, living in mountainous areas (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.63, 95% CI 1.90-7.46) and long duration of drug use in the past (aOR = 1.06, 95% CI 1.03-1.09) were associated with an increase in the odds of opioid relapse. By contrast, living with many family members (aOR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.55-0.85), having longer treatment time (aOR = 0.80, 95% CI 0.73-0.87), and completely adhering to treatment (aOR = 0.38, 95% CI 0.23-0.64) were protective for opioid relapse. As per the univariate analyses, the odds of opioid relapse declined by 25% for each increase of one close friend or relative (OR = 0.75, 95% CI 0.66-0.86). Regarding social support (range score: 0-100), each additional increase of one score was associated with a 1% decrease in the odds of opioid relapse (OR = 0.99, 95% CI 0.98-0.99). Patient sex, education level, occupation type, patient's monthly income, family's monthly income, the number of previous treatments, daily methadone dose, comorbidity, and received antiretroviral therapy were not associated with opioid relapse among patients (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Residence, the role of family and social support, and treatment adherence should be paid more attention to guarantee and enhance the success of methadone maintenance treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huong Thi Thanh Nguyen
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Management and Economics, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, 13-15 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City, 111000, Vietnam
| | - Dai Xuan Dinh
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Management and Economics, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, 13-15 Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City, 111000, Vietnam.
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Lin C, Li L, Le AT, Tran HML, Pham TD, Nguyen AT. An intervention pilot to facilitate harm reduction service decentralization in Vietnam. J Subst Abuse Treat 2023; 144:108927. [PMID: 36372055 PMCID: PMC9759177 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2022.108927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Harm reduction services, including methadone maintenance therapy (MMT), have been decentralized to Vietnam's community health care settings. This study aims to pilot test an intervention to facilitate decentralized harm reduction service delivery in Vietnam. METHODS The research team conducted an intervention pilot between August 2020 and May 2021 with six community MMT distribution sites in Thai Nguyen Province of Vietnam. We recruited five commune health workers (CHW) from each center (N = 30). In-person intervention training included content to correct misconceptions about harm reduction and reduce stigmatizing attitudes toward patients who use drugs and teach CHWs to self-examine and improve their service provision process. The study team developed a web-based platform to streamline CHW's patient monitoring and referral efforts. The team assessed intervention outcomes at baseline, 3-, and 6-months. CHWs in the intervention group provided acceptability ratings and feedback on the intervention at 6-months. RESULTS CHWs in both intervention and control groups had similar background characteristics and outcome measures at baseline. CHWs in the intervention group, compared to those in the control group, showed a significantly higher level of improvement in adherence to service delivery protocol at 3-months. CHW in the intervention group had a significantly lower level of management-related stress compared to the control group at 6-months, although the intervention effect measured by the difference in change from baseline was not statistically significant. CHWs who participated in the final focus group reported high acceptability of the intervention. CONCLUSION This intervention pilot demonstrated acceptability and promising outcomes on community-based harm reduction service delivery. Similar intervention strategies can be applied to enhance the decentralization of other chronic disease treatment services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunqing Lin
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Li Li
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anh Tuan Le
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | | | | | - Anh Tuan Nguyen
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Viet Nam
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Nguyen LT, De AK, Le KAA, Pham CM, Khanh L, Hoang VTH, Abdul-Quader AS. Estimated population size of the people who inject drugs in Thai Nguyen, Vietnam: A two survey capture-recapture study using respondent driven sampling. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000944. [PMID: 36962847 PMCID: PMC10021397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
To develop an appropriate programmatic response to the concentrated HIV epidemic, program managers require reliable estimates of the sizes of the key populations. This study attempts to estimate the population size of people who inject drugs (PWID) in Thai Nguyen-a province in the northern part of Vietnam. Two source capture-recapture population size estimates were calculated using data from two respondent driven sampling survey rounds conducted in 5 selected districts from May to August 2019. The population size of the PWID was calculated based on the number of PWID recruited in each survey and 'recaptured' during the first and the second survey. Additionally, personal network size data collected in the RDS was used to measure the population of PWID using the Successive Sampling Population Size Estimate (SS-PSE) method. The population of PWID estimated in five selected districts using the two capture-recapture method (CRC) (median = 5,396, 95% CI: 4,011-9,100) was slightly lower than estimated using SS-PSE with RDS survey 1 (median = 5,580, 95% CI: 3,024-9,272) and higher than when using SS-PSE with RDS survey 2 (median = 4,793; 95% CI: 2,310-8,618). The provincial PWID population estimates based on various approaches (e.g. extrapolation based on the prevalence of PWID in the districts) ranged from 6,498 (95% CI: 4,829-10,957) to around 6,807 (95% CI: 5,341-10,527). A provincial estimate of 6,782 PWID, with a confidence interval ranging from 5,312 to 10,527, will help guide planning and resource allocation to support appropriate levels of HIV prevention, care, and treatment services in the Thai Nguyen province.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ly Thuy Nguyen
- Division of Global HIV and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anindya K. De
- Division of Global HIV and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Kim Anh Ai Le
- HIV department, Provincial Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
| | - Cuong Manh Pham
- HIV department, Provincial Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
| | - Le Khanh
- HIV department, Provincial Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Thai Nguyen, Vietnam
| | - Van Thi Hai Hoang
- Department of Global Health, School of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Abu S. Abdul-Quader
- Division of Global HIV and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Treloar C, Lancaster K, Gendera S, Rhodes T, Shahbazi J, Byrne M, Degenhardt L, Farrell M. Can a new formulation of opiate agonist treatment alter stigma?: Place, time and things in the experience of extended-release buprenorphine depot. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 107:103788. [PMID: 35816790 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stigma has corrosive effects on all aspects of care and can undermine individual and population health outcomes. Addiction-related stigma has implications for opiate agonist treatment (OAT) and the people who receive, provide and fund it. It is important to understand how stigma is made in OAT and the political purposes that it serves, in order to change the relations of stigma and avoid the reproduction of stigma in the delivery of new treatment formulations, such as extended release buprenorphine (BUP-XR). METHODS Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted at two time points with participants in a prospective single-arm, multicentre, open-label trial of monthly BUP-XR. Thirty-six participants (25 men, 11 women) were interviewed, and of these 32 participated in a second interview to explore their experience of transition from other treatment to BUP-XR. RESULTS Participants were highly aware of the of the social and material effects of stigma through the negative stereotypes attached to OAT and those who receive it. Participants narrated examples of how stigma governed as a biopower in the relations and practices of OAT provision at numerous levels: structural (such as in public discourse about OAT and the people who receive it, in media, in perceptions about the decisions of investment in medical technologies); organisational (policies about legitimate access to OAT); interpersonal (with health workers) and individual (self-identities). BUP-XR allowed greater freedom and normalcy for clients. The experience of BUP-XR drew attention to the stigmatising potential of time, place and things associated with other OAT requiring daily (or frequent) dosing, accentuating how stigma comes to be materialised as a relational effect of everyday practices. CONCLUSIONS Receiving BUP-XR allowed participants to avoid some of the everyday biopolitical powers of other forms of OAT and to reshape self-identities. The altering of relations between time, place and things associated with other forms of OAT allowed participants to feel as though they "pass as normal" . However, the negative public discourse and stigma of OAT is a potential threat to BUP-XR to realise its potential for individual and population benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia.
| | - Kari Lancaster
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Tim Rhodes
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Jeyran Shahbazi
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Marianne Byrne
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Michael Farrell
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Australia
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Nguyen Thu T, Dinh TTT, Nguyen Bich D, Hoffman K, Nguyen Thu H, Edsall A, Bart G, Korthuis PT, Le Minh G. Stigma as a barrier to integrated substance use and HIV care in Vietnam: A qualitative examination of patient and provider perspectives. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2022; 23:182-197. [PMID: 35635379 PMCID: PMC9708927 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2022.2080785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Integration of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and HIV care can increase antiretroviral therapy coverage among people with opioid use disorder (OUD). However, implementation of integrated treatment models remains limited. Stigma towards people with OUD poses a barrier to initiation of, and adherence to, HIV treatment. We sought to understand the extent of stigma towards SUD and HIV among people with OUD in Vietnam, and the effect of stigma on integrated OUD and HIV treatment services utilization. Between 2013 and 2015, we conducted in-depth interviews with 43 patients and 43 providers at 7 methadone clinics and 8 HIV clinics across 4 provinces in Vietnam. We used thematic analysis with a mixed deductive and inductive approach at the semantic level to analyze key topics. Two main themes were identified: (1) Confidentiality concerns about HIV status make patients reluctant to receive integrated care at HIV clinics, given the requirements for daily buprenorphine dosing at HIV clinics. (2) Provider stigma existed mostly toward people with OUD and seemed to center on the belief that substance use causes a deterioration in one's morals, and was most frequently manifested in the form of providers' apprehensive approach towards patients. Concerns regarding stigmatization may cause patients to feel reluctant to receive treatment for both OUD and HIV at a single integrated clinic. Interventions to reduce stigma at the clinic and policy levels may thus serve to improve initiation of and adherence to integrated care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kim Hoffman
- Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | | | | | - Gavin Bart
- Hennepin Healthcare and University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Nguyen TT, Tran MTN, Le GM, Jauffret-Roustide M. Drug Harm Reduction in Vietnam: A Review of Stakeholders' Perspectives and Implications for Future Interventions. Am J Public Health 2022; 112:S182-S190. [PMID: 35349313 PMCID: PMC8965182 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2022.306764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To determine how harm reduction should be applied in low-resource countries such as Vietnam by exploring the perspectives of people who use drugs (PWUD), health care professionals, and policymakers regarding methadone treatment and harm reduction strategies. Methods. We conducted 2 qualitative studies in Vietnam between 2016 and 2021. We interviewed 62 PWUD and 22 experts in drug policy development and drug treatment programs, conducted observations at methadone clinics and harm reduction program meetings, and analyzed drug policy documents. Results. PWUD considered methadone treatment only as a transition to a drug-free life. Policymakers deemed harm reduction ineffective and continued to enforce arrest and incarceration of PWUD. Drug intervention programs are not yet geared to providing specialized services. Effective communication strategies and information on evidence-based harm reduction models are inadequate to help policymakers make the right decisions. Conclusions. Harm reduction principles have not been fully adopted in Vietnam. A harm reduction strategy based on a more humanistic approach that goes beyond a biomedicalized approach is urgently needed in Vietnam and other countries in the Global South. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(S2):S182-S190. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.306764).
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Affiliation(s)
- Trang Thu Nguyen
- Trang Thu Nguyen, Mai Thi Ngoc Tran, and Giang Minh Le are with the Center for Training and Research on Substance Abuse and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam. Tran Thi Ngoc Mai is also with the School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is with the Centre d'Étude des Mouvements Sociaux (CNRS UMR8044/Inserm U1276/EHESS), Paris, France and the British Columbia Center on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is also a Guest Editor of this supplement issue
| | - Mai Thi Ngoc Tran
- Trang Thu Nguyen, Mai Thi Ngoc Tran, and Giang Minh Le are with the Center for Training and Research on Substance Abuse and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam. Tran Thi Ngoc Mai is also with the School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is with the Centre d'Étude des Mouvements Sociaux (CNRS UMR8044/Inserm U1276/EHESS), Paris, France and the British Columbia Center on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is also a Guest Editor of this supplement issue
| | - Giang Minh Le
- Trang Thu Nguyen, Mai Thi Ngoc Tran, and Giang Minh Le are with the Center for Training and Research on Substance Abuse and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam. Tran Thi Ngoc Mai is also with the School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is with the Centre d'Étude des Mouvements Sociaux (CNRS UMR8044/Inserm U1276/EHESS), Paris, France and the British Columbia Center on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is also a Guest Editor of this supplement issue
| | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- Trang Thu Nguyen, Mai Thi Ngoc Tran, and Giang Minh Le are with the Center for Training and Research on Substance Abuse and HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam. Tran Thi Ngoc Mai is also with the School of Public Health and Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is with the Centre d'Étude des Mouvements Sociaux (CNRS UMR8044/Inserm U1276/EHESS), Paris, France and the British Columbia Center on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada. Marie Jauffret-Roustide is also a Guest Editor of this supplement issue
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11
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Li L, Lin C, Liang LJ, Song W, Pham LQ, Le TA, Nguyen TA. A community approach to promote healthcare services for people living with HIV who use drugs in Vietnam. Int J STD AIDS 2022; 33:164-172. [PMID: 34727808 PMCID: PMC10443225 DOI: 10.1177/09564624211053430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People living with HIV who use drugs (PLHWUD) face enormous challenges to access antiretroviral therapy (ART), addiction treatment, and other healthcare services. This study evaluated the effect of a community capacity-building approach on PLHWUD's access to healthcare services. METHODS A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in four provinces of Vietnam. Trained commune health workers in the intervention condition were encouraged to provide services to PLHWUD in the community and engage them in HIV/addiction treatment and care using learned knowledge and skills. A total of 241 PLHWUD participated in surveys at the baseline and every three months for one year. The primary outcome was PLHWUD's reported barriers to seeking healthcare. A linear mixed-effects regression model with a difference in difference approach was used to estimate the intervention effect on the primary outcome. RESULTS Adjusted analyses indicated that significant intervention effects were observed at the Sixth and ninth month follow-ups for those on ART at the baseline and increased motivation to engage in treatment at the 3-month follow-up (60.2% vs 34.4% for the intervention and control groups, respectively). CONCLUSIONS The community capacity-building intervention had shown promising yet limited outcomes among a subset of PLHWUD in the community, that is, PLHWUD who had already initiated ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Chunqing Lin
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Li-Jung Liang
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Weilu Song
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Loc Quang Pham
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior – Center for Community Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Tuan Anh Le
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
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12
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Button D, Cook R, King C, Khuyen TT, Kunkel L, Bart G, Thuy DT, Nguyen DB, Blazes CK, Giang LM, Korthuis PT. Correlates of days of medication for opioid use disorder exposure among people living with HIV in Northern Vietnam. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 100:103503. [PMID: 34768124 PMCID: PMC8810676 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Vietnam, access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) for people living with HIV has rapidly expanded, but MOUD use over time remains low. We sought to assess factors associated with days of MOUD treatment exposure. METHODS From 2015 to 2019, patients with OUD in six Northern Vietnamese HIV clinics were randomized to receive HIV clinic-based buprenorphine (BUP/NX) or referral for methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) and followed for 12 months. All MOUD doses were directly observed and abstracted from dosing logs. The primary outcome was days of MOUD treatment exposure (buprenorphine or methadone) received over 12 months. Negative binomial regression modelled associations with days of MOUD exposure. RESULTS Of 281 participants, 264 (94%) were eligible for analysis. Participants were primarily male (97%), unmarried (61%), employed (54%), and previously arrested (83%). Participants had a mean 187 (SD 150) days of MOUD exposure with 134 (51%) having at least 180 days, and 35 (13.2%) having at least 360 days of MOUD exposure. Age (IRR 1.26, 95% CI 1.02-1.55), income (IRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93-1.001), and methadone (IRR 1.88, 95% CI 1.51-2.42) were associated with MOUD exposure in multivariate models. Multivariate models predicted 127 (95% CL 109-147) days of MOUD exposure for HIV clinic based-buprenorphine vs 243 (95% CL 205-288) for MMT. CONCLUSION MOUD treatment exposure was suboptimal among patients with HIV and OUD in Northern Vietnam and was influenced by several factors. Interventions to support populations at risk of lower MOUD exposure as well programs administering MOUD should be considered in countries seeking to expand access to MOUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Button
- MD/MCR Program, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Ryan Cook
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Caroline King
- MD/PhD Program, School of Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | | | - Lynn Kunkel
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Gavin Bart
- Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - P Todd Korthuis
- Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Section of Addiction Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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13
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Brown PCM, Thuy DTT, Edsall A, Hang NT, Mai PP, Hoffman K, Bart G, Korthuis PT, Giang LM. Familial support in integrated treatment with antiretroviral therapy and medications for opioid use disorder in Vietnam: A qualitative study. Subst Abus 2022; 43:1004-1010. [PMID: 35435799 PMCID: PMC9678077 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2022.2060435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: Patients report that familial support can facilitate initiation and maintenance of antiretroviral therapy (ART) and medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). However, providing such support can create pressure and additional burdens for families of people with opioid use disorder (OUD) and HIV. We examined perspectives of people with HIV receiving treatment for OUD in Vietnam and their family members. Methods: Between 2015 and 2018, we conducted face-to-face qualitative interviews with 44 patients and 30 of their family members in Hanoi, Vietnam. Participants were people living with HIV and OUD enrolled in the BRAVO study comparing HIV clinic-based buprenorphine with referral to methadone treatment at 4 HIV clinics and their immediate family members (spouses or parents). Interviews were professionally transcribed, coded in Vietnamese, and analyzed using a semantic, inductive approach to qualitative thematic analysis. Results: Family members of people with OUD and HIV in Vietnam reported financially and emotionally supporting MOUD initiation and maintenance as well as actively participating in treatment. Family members described the burdens of supporting patients during opioid use, including financial costs and secondary stigma. Conclusions: Describing the role of family support in the lives of people living with OUD and HIV in the context of Vietnam enriches our understanding of their experiences and will support future treatment efforts targeting the family unit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrew Edsall
- Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine
| | | | | | - Kim Hoffman
- Portland State University-Oregon Health & Science University School of Public Health, Portland, OR
| | - Gavin Bart
- University of Minnesota Medical School and Hennepin Healthcare
| | - P. Todd Korthuis
- Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine,Portland State University-Oregon Health & Science University School of Public Health, Portland, OR
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14
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Trang NT, Jauffret-Roustide M, Giang LM, Visier L. "I'm not like others": stigma navigation by people who inject drugs in Vietnam. DRUGS (ABINGDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 29:85-94. [PMID: 35399201 PMCID: PMC8993137 DOI: 10.1080/09687637.2021.1874875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs are subjected to great stigmatization in many parts of the world. How they deal with stigma is closely linked to how stigma means to them. Understanding the strategies individuals employ to cope with these negative attitudes and what resources they mobilize in this process gives useful insights for clinical work and policy development. Methods We conducted 12 months of field observation in 2017 and 2018 and 54 in-depth interviews with people who inject drugs in Haiphong, Vietnam. Grounded theory underpinned our sampling and data analysis. Results The strategies participants used to manage stigma were both information and tension management. Many participants not only concealed their drug use but actively cultivated a pro-social image based on Vietnamese cultural virtues such as selflessness, hard work or harmonious living with others. Participants withdrew from social relationships to distance themselves from the stereotype of a money-begging drug user. They used techniques of neutralization to emphasize their good character and reframe their drug-related issues in a different light in order to negotiate their social status with their interlocutors. Conclusion People who inject drugs endorse the same social values and aspirations as nonusers. A good support structure and resources could help them to cope more effectively with stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thu Trang
- Centre for Research and Training on Substance Abuse – HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam; Doctoral School of Law and Political Sciences, Montpellier University, France
| | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- Centre of Medicine, Sciences, Health, Mental Health and Health Policy (CERMES 3) (Inserm U988/CNRS UMR 8211/EHESS/Université Paris Descartes), Paris, France
| | - Le Minh Giang
- Centre for Research and Training on Substance Abuse – HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam
| | - Laurent Visier
- Doctoral School of Law and Political Sciences, Montpellier University, France
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15
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Harris M, Guy D, Picchio CA, White TM, Rhodes T, Lazarus JV. Conceptualising hepatitis C stigma: A thematic synthesis of qualitative research. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 96:103320. [PMID: 34261587 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma is an important element in the experience of living with chronic viral hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV), impacting healthcare access and uptake as well as health outcomes. Conceptualisations of stigma in research are, however, often assumed and implicit. This study aimed to synthesise and critically engage with the qualitative literature to provide an overarching conceptualisation of stigma as it pertains to viral hepatitis. METHODS We critically reviewed qualitative literature that mobilised concepts or theories of stigma in relation to viral hepatitis. We searched seven electronic databases for peer-reviewed literature from 2000 to 2019. Given a dearth of conceptual literature on HBV stigma, we conducted a thematic analysis of concepts deployed to theorise stigma in relation to HCV. RESULTS We found 13 studies that conceptualised stigma in relation to HCV, yet none for HBV. We synthesise the analytical findings of these studies and explore how HCV is theorised in relation to four themes: 'identity', 'embodiment', 'institutionalisation', and 'structuration'. Taken together, these themes illustrate the way in which HCV stigma manifests as the confluence of normative assumptions of socially unacceptable practices relating to HCV, such as injecting drug use and sexual behaviours; attitudes towards socially excluded populations; and fears of contracting a contagious and chronic illness. As such, operating within political, social, and economic systems, HCV stigma can act to silence the needs of those with HCV through misrecognising the multifaceted identities of individuals with HCV and structural determinants of health. Stigma, which is built and perpetuated by institutional arrangements, as well as in social processes and policies, shapes deservedness to, as well as engagements with, health and social care. CONCLUSION While commonly employed as a framing concept, much research lacks explicit theoretical or critical engagement on how stigma is conceptualised. There is a tendency for qualitative, empirical research to focus on risk factors shaping individual behaviour change, rather than on risk contexts and socio-structural change. Approaches to address stigma in relation to HCV must consider how stigma operates throughout social processes and is embedded in systems of power and normalised in institutional operating systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Harris
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH
| | - Danielle Guy
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Camila A Picchio
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Trenton M White
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tim Rhodes
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Calle del Rossellón 132, ES-08036 Barcelona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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16
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Carlsen SEL, Isaksen K, Fadnes LT, Lygren OJS, Åstrøm AN. Non-financial barriers in oral health care: a qualitative study of patients receiving opioid maintenance treatment and professionals' experiences. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2021; 16:44. [PMID: 34001202 PMCID: PMC8130131 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-021-00379-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with substance use disorders often have poor oral health, which can negatively impact their quality of life. Since 2005, patients receiving opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) in Norway have been eligible for free oral health care services offered through public oral health clinics. Despite a large need for oral health services amongst patients in OMT, figures suggest that the use of these services is low amongst this patient group. It has been unclear which barriers that contribute to this. This qualitative study explores the underlying barriers to the use of oral health care services amongst patients in OMT, from the perspective of the patients as well as dental health care workers (DHW). METHODS Through a combination of focus group interviews and individual interviews, data were collected from 63 participants; 30 patients in OMT and 33 DHW. Thematic analysis identified key themes for the use (or not) of oral health care services amongst patients in OMT. RESULTS Both individual and structural barriers prevent OMT patients from using the free oral health care services offered to them. These barriers include struggling to attend appointments, anxiety and fear of dentists, discrepancies between patients' expectations and the services offered and perceived stigma. OMT patients' lack of information regarding their rights and access to oral health services was also a barrier, as was DHWs' lack of knowledge and information of the OMT system and what they can offer patients. CONCLUSIONS OMT patients face several barriers in accessing and using oral health care services. However, through a number of relatively simple measures, it is possible that the use of oral health services amongst OMT patients can be increased.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Katja Isaksen
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Western Norway, PO Box 7900, 5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars Thore Fadnes
- Department of Addiction medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, PO Box 1400, 5021, Bergen, Norway
- Institute of Global health, University of Bergen, PO Box 7804, 5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ole Jørgen Scheie Lygren
- Department of Addiction medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, PO Box 1400, 5021, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anne Nordrehaug Åstrøm
- Department of clinical dentistry, University of Bergen, PO Box 7804, 5020, Bergen, Norway.
- Oral Health Centre of Expertise in Western Norway, PO Box 7900, 5020, Bergen, Norway.
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17
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Thu Trang N, Jauffret-Roustide M, Minh Giang L, Visier L. How to be self-reliant in a stigmatising context? Challenges facing people who inject drugs in Vietnam. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 87:102913. [PMID: 32855011 PMCID: PMC8118722 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stigma works to reinforce dominant social values. The meaning of stigma is therefore not static but dependant on the regime in power. Taking into account the significant socioeconomic changes that took place in Vietnam over the last thirty years, this study explores the meaning of stigma directed at Vietnamese people who inject drugs in different social spheres. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted as part of an evaluation of a peer outreach program that distributes harm-reduction supplies and information, and provides treatment referral assistance to people who inject drugs in Haiphong, Vietnam. We conducted ethnographic field observations with peer outreach workers, home visits, and 54 in-depth interviews with participants in 2017 and 2018. Grounded theory led our theoretical sampling and analysis. RESULTS Stigma towards people who inject drugs seems to centre on the ability to be self-reliant rather than on drug-using behaviours. Participants described how their families and neighbours expressed expectations that they should manage their substance use issues by themselves, without considering the barriers they face in the job market. Participants interpret stigma directed at them in terms of poverty rather than drug use. As a result, they sometimes engage in illegal income-generating activities to pursue financial autonomy and to regain their social status. CONCLUSION People who inject drugs were struggling to conform to social expectations of self-reliance with limited support to realise it. Effective interventions must consider the many facets and challenges individuals encounter in their daily lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Thu Trang
- Centre for Research and Training on Substance Abuse - HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- Centre for Research and Training on Substance Abuse - HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Le Minh Giang
- Centre for Research and Training on Substance Abuse - HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Laurent Visier
- Centre for Research and Training on Substance Abuse - HIV, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Luong HT, Hoang LT, Le TQ, Hoang TA, Vu MT, Tran HQ, Thomson N. 'We realised we needed a new approach': Government and law enforcement perspectives on the implementation and future of the drug decriminalisation policy in vietnam. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 87:102990. [PMID: 33099159 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In 2009, Vietnam officially decriminalised drug use through amendments to the criminal law. The amendments outlined explicitly that illicit drug use would be seen as an administrative violation, but not a criminal offence. This legal transition has not been without implementation challenges, and police particularly have struggled to find a balance between drug law enforcement and decriminalisation. Despite being a health-orientated drug policy amendment, in practice it allows police to send suspected drug users to compulsory treatment centres without judicial oversight and people who use drugs continue to face challenges in their interface with law enforcement which can negatively impact access to harm reduction and community-based treatment programs. Using policy desk research combined with indepth interviews with 14 key informants from people representing a range of relevant Vietnamese government (n = 10) and non-government agencies (n = 4), this paper explores some insights and considerations into how decriminalisation of drug use in the amended law was implemented. We explore key informant perspectives into how the decriminalisation amendment could be implemented more effectively in order to improve health outcomes for people who use drugs in Vietnam through re-envisioned police protocols and practices. Findings show that while decriminalising drug use in Vietnam was designed as a progressive and health-orientated drug policy, the ongoing disconnect between the health intent of the policy and the police-led oversight of its implementation in the community persists. Part of this disconnect is explained by the lack of training and clear protocols that would enhance the police in their ability to contribute to the health intent of the policy rather than continue to view drug use through a drug law enforcement only lens. The paper calls for further collaboration across policing and the health and community-based organisations delivering services for people who use drugs. We suggest that through developing a deeper understanding of the interplay between policing and the implementation of harm reduction policy and programs, decriminalisation can co-exist within a broader and deeply entrenched drug control strategy in Vietnam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Thanh Luong
- Informetrics Research Group, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam; Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
| | - Luc Trong Hoang
- Faculty of Forensic Science, the People's Police Academy of Vietnam, Co Nhue 2 Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Toan Quang Le
- Faculty of Criminal Investigation, the People's Police Academy of Vietnam, Co Nhue 2 Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Tuan Anh Hoang
- Department of Human Resource, the People's Police Academy of Vietnam, Co Nhue 2 Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Mai Thanh Vu
- Faculty o Fundamental Policing, the People's Police Academy of Vietnam, Co Nhue 2 Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam
| | - Huyen Quang Tran
- the People's Police Academy of Vietnam, Co Nhue 2 Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam
| | - Nicholas Thomson
- Department of Public Health, Environment and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 17-17 Tavistock Place, Saint Pancras, London, WC1H 9SH, United Kingdom; Nossal Institute, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie Street, Carlton VIC 3053, Australia
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Kiriazova T, Go VF, Hershow RB, Hamilton EL, Sarasvita R, Bui Q, Lancaster KE, Dumchev K, Hoffman IF, Miller WC, Latkin CA. Perspectives of clients and providers on factors influencing opioid agonist treatment uptake among HIV-positive people who use drugs in Indonesia, Ukraine, and Vietnam: HPTN 074 study. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:69. [PMID: 32998731 PMCID: PMC7528574 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00415-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) is an effective method of addiction treatment and HIV prevention. However, globally, people who inject drugs (PWID) have insufficient OAT uptake. To expand OAT access and uptake, policymakers, program developers and healthcare providers should be aware of barriers to and facilitators of OAT uptake among PWID. METHODS As a part of the HPTN 074 study, which assessed the feasibility of an intervention to facilitate HIV treatment and OAT in PWID living with HIV in Indonesia, Ukraine, and Vietnam, we conducted in-depth interviews with 37 HIV-positive PWID and 25 healthcare providers to explore barriers to and facilitators of OAT uptake. All interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, translated into English, and coded in NVivo for analysis. We developed matrices to identify emergent themes and patterns. RESULTS Despite some reported country-specific factors, PWID and healthcare providers at all geographic locations reported similar barriers to OAT initiation, such as complicated procedures to initiate OAT, problematic clinic access, lack of information on OAT, misconceptions about methadone, financial burden, and stigma toward PWID. However, while PWID reported fear of drug interaction (OAT and antiretroviral therapy), providers perceived that PWID prioritized drug use over caring for their health and hence were less motivated to take up ART and OAT. Motivation for a life change and social support were reported to be facilitators. CONCLUSION These results highlight a need for support for PWID to initiate and retain in drug treatment. To expand OAT in all three countries, it is necessary to facilitate access and ensure low-threshold, financially affordable OAT programs for PWID, accompanied with supporting interventions. PWID attitudes and beliefs about OAT indicate the need for informational campaigns to counter misinformation and stigma associated with addiction and OAT (especially methadone).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetiana Kiriazova
- Ukrainian Institute On Public Health Policy, 5 Biloruska Str., Office 20, 27, Kyiv, 04050 Ukraine
| | - Vivian F. Go
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
| | - Rebecca B. Hershow
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill, 135 Dauer Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
| | - Erica L. Hamilton
- Science Facilitation Department, FHI 360, 359 Blackwell Street, Suite 200, Durham, NC 27701 USA
| | - Riza Sarasvita
- Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Central General Hospital, University of Indonesia, Jalan Pangeran Diponegoro No.71, Salemba, Senen, Jakarta Pusat, Daerah Khusus Ibukota, Jakarta, 10430 Indonesia
| | - Quynh Bui
- UNC Project Vietnam, Yen Hoa Health Clinic, Lot E2, Duong Dinh Nghe Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Kathryn E. Lancaster
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, 300-D Cunz Hall, 1841 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Kostyantyn Dumchev
- Ukrainian Institute On Public Health Policy, 5 Biloruska Str., Office 20, 27, Kyiv, 04050 Ukraine
| | - Irving F. Hoffman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina At Chapel Hill, 130 Mason Farm Rd, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 USA
| | - William C. Miller
- Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The Ohio State University, 300-D Cunz Hall, 1841 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins University, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Lu Q, Zou X, Liu Y, Gong C, Ling L. Dose Tapering Strategy for Heroin Abstinence among Methadone Maintenance Treatment Participants: Evidence from A Retrospective Study in Guangdong, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E2800. [PMID: 31390750 PMCID: PMC6695604 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16152800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Around half of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) participants choose the tapering phase, however, the guidelines on tapering differ between countries and only include the tapering rate. Physicians need more evidence to guide clinical practice. We aimed to explore a specific tapering strategy to improve heroin abstinence among MMT participants. We conducted a retrospective study from 2006 to 2017 at nine MMT clinics in Guangdong, China, involving 853 participants with 961 treatment episodes. We performed two-level hierarchical logistic regression models to identify tapering phase characteristics associated with heroin abstinence. Among all treatment episodes, 419 (43.6%) were heroin abstinent. Participants who started tapering after 52 weeks, had a taper start dose of less than 60 mg and a taper ratio of less than 5%/week, while a dose reduction in 75%-89% of the tapering weeks provided the highest odds of heroin abstinence. This study highlights the need for a more gradual taper than current guidelines recommend and strongly suggests the inclusion of other tapering phase characteristics. Those who start the tapering phase later, have a lower dose of methadone, with a more gradual rate of taper, and a dose reduction in 75%-89% of the tapering phase increased the odds of heroin abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Lu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xia Zou
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Yin Liu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Cheng Gong
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Li Ling
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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