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Abstract
Introduction: This evaluation is part of a Twinning Project between Cyprus and Germany, aimed at evaluating the governmental drug services in Cyprus and promoting the improvement and introduction of new drug treatment services, in order to assist the new Member State in the implementation and harmonization with the European Community's legislation.
Methods: A field investigation studied parameters as population in need, treatment demand and coverage, as well as high-risk patterns and their trend over the past years.
Results: The main findings were a high level of problematic drug use, mainly high-risk intravenous heroin and cocaine use, and an increase treatment demand for women, adolescents and migrants. Expert interviews named gaps in treatment options, including a previous lack of maintenance treatment, insufficient harm reduction measures and inadequate treatment concepts to meet specific needs of problematic drug users.
Discussion: Recommendations for improvement can be integrated into present services. Cypriot authorities have started implementing the suggestions, so that an overall improvement of services can be expected in the future.