![Sample our Health and Social Care journals, sign in here to start your FREE access for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5938/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Health-Social-Care.jpg"})
Abstract
This report uses data from an evaluation of low‐threshold methadone treatment in a natural setting. The data are routinely collected, and the process is designed to help management of individuals on the programme and to evaluate and explore the benefits of this approach, in particular its impact on injecting behaviour. The data presented are from two clinical databases: the first records data on drug management throughout the programme; and the second is based on routine data collected using the Maudesley Addiction Profile, modified for clinical use. One hundred and one people were recruited into the programme at its inception and 69 were still in 8‐week follow‐up, when the data were analysed. Analyses of the data provided evidence of reduced injecting activity. There was also a positive impact on physical and psychological health as well as a reduction in illegal activity. Although these outcome data focus on a limited time period, further interviews are conducted after 16 weeks. Only limited information is available at this point in the 8‐week follow‐up. Although some successful outcomes have been achieved in the short term, further evaluation is required in a bid to explore longer‐term maintenance of behaviour change.