Quality of life of services users in psychotropic drug treatment and rehabilitation services: a qualitative study from service user and provider perspectives

ABSTRACT

Quality of life (QoL) is a widely recognized and valuable social outcome measure in drug treatment and rehabilitation services, but the discrepancies in QoL perceptions between service users and providers remain under-explored. In this study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with service users (n = 22) and providers (n = 29) to capture their perceptions of QoL and explore the similarities and discrepancies between their views. A thematic analysis and contrast exploration revealed a shared understanding of QoL that extends beyond health to six dimensions and prioritizes empowerment and connection. However, divergent views emerged regarding the priorities of material conditions, emotional well-being, and physical health. Findings underscore the importance of using shared decision-making as a strategy to effectively address these discrepancies and promote a more patient-centered approach in treatment and rehabilitation services.

KEYWORDS:

• Psychotropic drug treatment and rehabilitation services
• quality of life
• qualitative study
• service users
• service providers
• dimensions and priorities

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by a grant from the Beat Drugs Fund, Hong Kong (Award number: BDF170066).