Abstract
Objective: To develop and evaluate an evidence-based intervention addressing overdose among heroin users in South Australia.
Methods: The intervention comprised three strands: information materials, a peer education initiative, and structural change through the establishment of partnerships with user groups, police and ambulance services.
Results: Liaison with police and ambulance services resulted in new guidelines being developed for police attendance at overdoses. A pre-intervention survey provided an evidence base for the development of the intervention materials and process, as well as a baseline against which the intervention could be evaluated. An evaluation survey conducted six months after the intervention launch showed that 47% of participants had been exposed to the intervention. More of the respondents exposed to the intervention rang an ambulance to their most recent witnessed overdose, and indicated less fear of police involvement if an ambulance was called. In comparison to the pre-intervention sample, the post-intervention sample reported greater recognition of the signs of opioid overdose and greater awareness of overdose prevention strategies and the risk factors associated with overdose (including the use of other central nervous system depressants with heroin, and using heroin while alone). This study shows that heroin users will respond to appropriate, targeted health education messages developed in conjunction with the user community and implemented using an intersectoral approach.