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Knight D, Nkya IH, West NS, Yang C, Kidorf M, Latkin C, Saleem HT. Economic, social, and clinic influences on opioid treatment program retention in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: a qualitative study. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2023; 18:19. [PMID: 36973794 PMCID: PMC10042396 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00374-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are associated with positive health outcomes. People remaining on MOUD have a reduced likelihood of drug overdose and mortality. Tanzania supports a national opioid treatment program (OTP) offering MOUD, but retention is a continual challenge. To date, most research on MOUD retention in Tanzania and other Sub-Saharan Africa settings has been focused on the individual-level, with little attention to economic, social, and clinic-level factors. METHODS We qualitatively examined economic, social, and clinic factors that affect retention on MOUD, specifically methadone maintenance therapy, among former and current clients attending an OTP clinic Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. We conducted in-depth interviews with a total of 40 current and former clients receiving MOUD and four focus groups with an additional 35 current clients on MOUD between January and April 2020. We utilized a thematic analysis approach. RESULTS Daily OTP clinic attendance posed a financial burden to current and former clients and was a barrier to remaining on MOUD. Though treatment is free, clients described struggles to attend clinic, including being able to afford transportation. Female clients were differentially impacted, as sex work was the most common income-generating activity that they participated in, which presented its own set of unique challenges, including barriers to attending during set clinic hours. Drug use stigma acted as a barrier to MOUD and prevented clients from securing a job, rebuilding trust within the community, and accessing transportation to attend the clinic. Being able to rebuild trust with family facilitated remaining on MOUD, as family provided social and financial support. Caretaking responsibilities and familial expectations among female clients conflicted with MOUD adherence. Finally, clinic level factors, such as clinic dispensing hours and punitive consequences for breaking rules, posed barriers to clients on MOUD. CONCLUSION Social and structural factors, both within (e.g., clinic policies) and outside of (e.g., transportation) the clinic impact MOUD retention. Our findings can inform interventions and policies to address economic and social barriers to MOUD, that can contribute to sustained recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deja Knight
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Iddi Haruna Nkya
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, P.O. Box 65001, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Nora Solon West
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Cui Yang
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 2213 McElderry Street, 2nd Floor, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Michael Kidorf
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Campus, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 624 North Broadway Avenue, Hampton House Room 737, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Haneefa T Saleem
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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Bertz JW, Panlilio LV, Stull SW, Smith KE, Reamer D, Holtyn AF, Toegel F, Kowalczyk WJ, Phillips KA, Epstein DH, Silverman K, Preston KL. Being at work improves stress, craving, and mood for people with opioid use disorder: Ecological momentary assessment during a randomized trial of experimental employment in a contingency-management-based therapeutic workplace. Behav Res Ther 2022; 152:104071. [PMID: 35390535 PMCID: PMC9206864 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2022.104071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Employment problems are common among people with substance use disorders (SUDs), and improving vocational functioning is an important aspect of SUD treatment. More detailed understanding of the psychosocial benefits of employment may help refine vocational interventions for people with SUDs. Here, we used ecological momentary assessment to measure possible affective improvements associated with work. Participants (n = 161) with opioid use disorder were randomized to work (job-skills training) in a contingency-management-based Therapeutic Workplace either immediately or after a waitlist delay. Throughout, participants responded via smartphone to randomly scheduled questionnaires. In linear mixed models comparing responses made at work vs. all other locations, being at work was associated with: less stress, less craving for opioids and cocaine, less negative mood, more positive mood, and more flow-like states. Some of these differences were also observed on workdays vs. non-workdays outside of work hours. These results indicate that benefits associated with work may not be restricted to being actually in the workplace; however, randomization did not reveal clear changes coinciding with the onset of work access. Overall, in contrast to work-associated negative moods measured by experience-sampling in the general population, Therapeutic Workplace participants experienced several types of affective improvements associated with work.
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P Hong PY, Kim SH, Marley J, Park JH. Transforming Impossible into Possible (TIP) for SUD recovery: A promising practice innovation to combat the opioid crisis. Soc Work Health Care 2021; 60:509-528. [PMID: 34414853 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2021.1958127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to examine the psychological self-sufficiency (PSS) process among low-income individuals participating in the Transforming Impossible into Possible (TIP) program and explore the implications of TIP as a SUD recovery intervention. A sample of 622 individuals from 9 local job training programs in a large Midwestern city was used to examine the group differences in substance abuse barrier and employment hope as they relates to economic self-sufficiency (ESS). Individuals in the TIP program (n = 315) had statistically significant path coefficients between substance abuse barriers, employment hope and ESS while the non-TIP counterpart (n = 307) showed a significant path only between employment hope and ESS. Also, the time difference score in substance abuse barrier and ESS was greater for the TIP group compared to the non-TIP comparison group. Results provide implications for social work practice among persons with SUDs. While the traditional employment programs focused only on the interview and job skills, TIP allowed participants to discover their resources to address the inner obstacles that have been holding them back. TIP could serve as a promising model to treat SUDs and support the recovery process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suk-Hee Kim
- School of Social Work, Northern Kentucky University, Highland Heights, KY, USA
| | - James Marley
- School of Social Work, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jang Ho Park
- School of Social Work, Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Maremmani AGI, Pacini M, Maremmani I. What we have learned from the Methadone Maintenance Treatment of Dual Disorder Heroin Use Disorder patients. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2019; 16:E447. [PMID: 30717435 PMCID: PMC6388207 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16030447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mental Disorders and Heroin Use Disorder (HUD) often co-occur and constitute correlated risk factors that the authors believe are best considered from a unitary perspective. In this article we review and discuss data collected by the V.P. Dole Research Group in Dual Disorder (V.P. Dole DD-RG) patients according to the following six discussion points: (1) Treatment of personality disorders during Methadone Maintenance Treatment (MMT); (2) Treatment of Mood Disorders during MMT; (3) Treatment of Anxiety Disorders during MMT; (4) Treatment of Psychotic Disorders during MMT; (5) Treatment of violence during MMT; (6) Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) during MMT. In treating Mood Disorder in HUD patients, we must bear in mind the interactions (potentiation and side effects) between psychopharmacology, used substances and agonist opioid medications; the use of psychiatric medications as an anti-craving drug, and the possible use of agonist and antagonist opioid medications in treating the other mental disorders. In treating chronic psychosis in HUD patients, we must consider the potentiation and side effects of antipsychotic drugs consequent on HUD treatment, worsening addiction hypophoria and inducing a more severe reward deficiency syndrome (RDS) in hypophoric patients. Violence and AUD during MMT can benefit from adequate dosages of methadone and co-medication with Sodium gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). The experience of our V.P. Dole DD-RG suggests the following: (a) DD is the new paradigm in neuroscience in deepening our understanding of mental health; (b) To successfully treat DD patients a double competence is needed; (c) In managing DD patients priority must be given to Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment (stabilizing patients); (d) Antidepressant use is ancillary to SUD treatment; antipsychotic use must be restricted to acute phases; mood stabilizers must be preferred; any use of Benzodiazepines (BDZs) must be avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo G I Maremmani
- Department of Psychiatry, North-Western Tuscany Region NHS Local Health Unit, Versilia Zone, 55049 Viareggio, Italy.
- Association for the Application of Neuroscientific Knowledge to Social Aims (AU-CNS), Pietrasanta, 55045 Lucca, Italy.
- G. De Lisio, Institute of Behavioral Sciences, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Matteo Pacini
- G. De Lisio, Institute of Behavioral Sciences, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Icro Maremmani
- Association for the Application of Neuroscientific Knowledge to Social Aims (AU-CNS), Pietrasanta, 55045 Lucca, Italy.
- G. De Lisio, Institute of Behavioral Sciences, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
- V.P. Dole Dual Disorder Unit, 2nd Psychiatric Unit, Santa Chiara University Hospital, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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Corsi KF, Kwiatkowski CF, Booth RE. Predictors of Positive Outcomes for Out-of-Treatment Opiate Injectors Recruited into Methadone Maintenance through Street Outreach. Journal of Drug Issues 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/002204260203200316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to assess behavior change in the areas of drug use, productivity, criminal activity, and HIV risk among street-recruited injection drug users who entered methadone maintenance treatment. In addition, the study examined a number of variables that could account for these changes, including demographics, intervention effects, and treatment-related measures. A total of 168 participants were interviewed at baseline, received outreach interventions, entered methadone maintenance treatment, and were reinterviewed 5–9 months later. Significant (p<.001) improvements were seen in the areas of drug use, productivity, criminality, and HIV risk behaviors. The only variables significantly associated with behavior change were related to drug treatment. In particular, being in treatment at the time of the follow-up assessment had the strongest relationship to positive outcomes, including length of treatment. Having no prior treatment experience was associated with fewer injections at follow-up. These findings emphasize the importance of retaining clients, given the likelihood that positive change is likely to be evidenced while they remain in treatment
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Fortuin Corsi
- University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Department of Psychiatry in the Division of Substance Dependence
| | - Carol F. Kwiatkowski
- University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Department of Psychiatry in the Division of Substance Dependence
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Jackson LA, Buxton JA, Dingwell J, Dykeman M, Gahagan J, Gallant K, Karabanow J, Kirkland S, LeVangie D, Sketris I, Gossop M, Davison C. Improving psychosocial health and employment outcomes for individuals receiving methadone treatment: a realist synthesis of what makes interventions work. BMC Psychol 2014; 2:26. [PMID: 25566385 PMCID: PMC4269989 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-014-0026-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For over 50 years, methadone has been prescribed to opioid-dependent individuals as a pharmacological approach for alleviating the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. However, individuals prescribed methadone sometimes require additional interventions (e.g., counseling) to further improve their health. This study undertook a realist synthesis of evaluations of interventions aimed at improving the psychosocial and employment outcomes of individuals on methadone treatment, to determine what interventions work (or not) and why. METHODS The realist synthesis method was utilized because it uncovers the processes (or mechanisms) that lead to particular outcomes, and the contexts within which this occurs. A comprehensive search process resulted in 31 articles for review. Data were extracted from the articles, and placed in four templates to assist with analysis. Data analysis was an iterative process and involved comparing and contrasting data within and across each template, and cross checking with original articles to determine key patterns in the data. RESULTS For individuals on methadone, engagement with an intervention appears to be important for improved psychosocial and/or employment outcomes. The engagement process involves attendance at interventions as well as an investment in what is offered. Three intervention contexts (often in some combination) support the engagement process: a) client-centered contexts (or those where clients' psychosocial and/or employment needs/issues/skills are recognized and/or addressed); b) contexts which address clients' socio-economic conditions and needs; and, c) contexts where there are positive client-counselor and/or peer relationships. There is some evidence that sometimes ongoing engagement is necessary to maintain positive outcomes. There is also some evidence that complete abstinence from drugs (e.g., cocaine, heroin) is not necessary for engagement. CONCLUSIONS It is important to consider how the contexts of interventions might elicit and/or support clients' engagement. Further research is needed to explore how an individual's background (e.g., involvement with different interventions over an extended period) may influence engagement. Long-term engagement may be necessary to sustain some positive outcomes although how long is unclear and requires further research. Engagement can occur without complete abstinence from such drugs as cocaine or heroin, but additional research is required as engagement may be influenced by the extent and type of drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lois A Jackson
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, 6230 South Street, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada ; Atlantic Health Promotion Research Centre, Dalhousie University, 1318 Robie Street, Halifax, NS B3H 3E2 Canada
| | - Jane A Buxton
- School of Population & Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3 Canada
| | - Julie Dingwell
- AIDS Saint John, 62 Waterloo St, Saint John, NB E2L 3P3 Canada
| | - Margaret Dykeman
- University of New Brunswick, 2140 Hanwell Rd, Hanwell, NB B3C 1 M8 Canada
| | - Jacqueline Gahagan
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, 6230 South Street, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada ; Atlantic Health Promotion Research Centre, Dalhousie University, 1318 Robie Street, Halifax, NS B3H 3E2 Canada
| | - Karen Gallant
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, 6230 South Street, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Jeff Karabanow
- School of Social Work, Dalhousie University, Suite 3201-1459 LeMarchant Street, PO Box 15000, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Susan Kirkland
- Community Health & Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, 5790 University Ave., 4th Floor, Halifax, NS B3H 1 V7 Canada
| | - Dolores LeVangie
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, 6230 South Street, P.O. Box 15000, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada ; Atlantic Health Promotion Research Centre, Dalhousie University, 1318 Robie Street, Halifax, NS B3H 3E2 Canada
| | - Ingrid Sketris
- College of Pharmacy, Dalhousie University, 5968 College St, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2 Canada
| | - Michael Gossop
- National Addiction Centre, King's College London, PO48, 4 Windsor Walk, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8BB UK
| | - Carolyn Davison
- Mental Health, Children's Services, and Addictions Branch, Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness, PO Box 488, Halifax, NS B3J 2R8 Canada
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7
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Abstract
Employment is a key functioning index in addiction services and consistently emerges as a goal among individuals in recovery. Research on the employment status in the addiction field has focused on treatment populations or welfare recipients; little is known of employment rates or their predictors among individuals in recovery. This study seeks to fill this gap, capitalizing on a sample (N = 311) of urban individuals at various stages of recovery. Fewer than half (44.5%) of participants were employed; in logistic regressions, male gender and Caucasian race enhanced the odds of employment, whereas having a comorbid chronic physical or mental health condition decreased the odds by half. Implications center on the need to identify effective strategies to enhance employability among women and minorities and for integrated care for individuals with multiple chronic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre B Laudet
- Center for the Study of Addictions and Recovery, National Development and Research Institutes, Inc., New York, New York 10010, USA.
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8
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Newman RG. Comment on the case for considering quality of life in addiction research and clinical practice. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2012; 7:2; author reply 2. [PMID: 22966408 PMCID: PMC3414805 DOI: 10.1186/1940-0640-7-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Newman
- International Center for Advancement of Addiction Treatment, Baron Edmond de Rothschild Chemical Dependency Institute, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Foley K, Pallas D, Forcehimes AA, Houck JM, Bogenschutz MP, Keyser-Marcus L, Svikis D. EFFECT OF JOB SKILLS TRAINING ON EMPLOYMENT AND JOB SEEKING BEHAVIORS IN AN AMERICAN INDIAN SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT SAMPLE. J Vocat Rehabil 2010; 33:181-192. [PMID: 21818173 DOI: 10.3233/jvr-2010-0526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Employment difficulties are common among American Indian individuals in substance abuse treatment. To address this problem, the Southwest Node of NIDA's Clinical Trials Network conducted a single-site adaptation of its national Job Seekers Workshop study in an American Indian treatment program, Na'Nizhoozhi Center (NCI). 102 (80% men, 100% American Indian) participants who were in residential treatment and currently unemployed were randomized to (1) a three session, manualized program (Job seekers workshop: JSW) or (2) a 40-minute Job Interviewing Video: JIV). Outcomes were assessed at 3-month follow up: 1) number of days to a new taxed job or enrollment in a job-training program, and 2) total hours working or enrolled in a job-training program. No significant differences were found between the two groups for time to a new taxed job or enrollment in a job-training program. There were no significant differences between groups in substance use frequency at 3-month follow-up. These results do not support the use of the costly and time-consuming JSW intervention in this population and setting. Despite of the lack of a demonstrable treatment effect, this study established the feasibility of including a rural American Indian site in a rigorous CTN trial through a community-based participatory research approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Foley
- Na'Nizhoozhi Center Incorporated
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10
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Abstract
After drug use stabilization, employment has long been considered an important goal for clients enrolled in Methadone Maintenance Treatment Programs (MMTPs). The integrated counseling and employment intervention described here is a manualized treatment based on interpersonal cognitive problem solving (ICPS) theory. The six-month intervention utilized a problem-solving framework to help methadone clients obtain a job and manage employment within the context of drug treatment. In this pilot study, 23 subjects were randomly assigned to either integrated ICPS drug and employment counseling (n = 12) or to an ICPS drug counseling control condition (n = 11). While there were no differences between the integrated and control conditions, both groups showed a significant improvement in employment outcomes and reduction in HIV risk behaviors at the six-month follow-up. Although there may be concerns regarding the generalizability of the findings, overall, the problem solving framework may be an improvement over standard methadone counseling. The intervention may be beneficial when implemented with a larger group of motivated ex-offenders who are mandated to drug treatment as a condition of their parole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna M Coviello
- University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine, 3440 Market Street, Suite 370, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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11
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Abstract
Drug use relapse rates are high following residential detoxification. This study examined the aftercare plans and desired services of participants currently enrolled in residential detoxification programs. Participants completed a survey regarding their aftercare plans and services that they desired from an aftercare program. Participants (98%) reported some form of aftercare plans following detoxification. Among the services that participants endorsed wanting were individual counseling, help with finding a job, and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings. With low rates of enrollment in aftercare programs, the findings of this study may be of help in determining what services will best assist individuals recovering from addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Tuten
- Cornerstone Treatment Research Clinic, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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12
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Abstract
There are conflicting reports regarding the relationship of labor supply and substance abuse. Opioid analgesic abuse, particularly with Oxycontin and hydrocodone, has increased in the past years. Kentucky is one of the states with the highest abuse rate for these substances. The purpose of this trend study is to determine if there is a relationship between unemployment rate and rate of opiate exposure in Kentucky. The time period analyzed was year 2000 to year 2005. Data were obtained from the United States Census Bureau, United States Department of Labor and the Kentucky Regional Poison Center. Three of the six years (2000, 2002, 2003) showed a significant positive correlation between higher unemployment rate and higher rate of opiate exposure. The largest negative correlation was noted in 2004, which was also the period wherein the unemployment rate decreased statewide. Correlations for the remaining two years (2001 and 2005) approached statistical significance.
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Abstract
A new service delivery system for the treatment of opioid dependence, called motivational stepped care, matches the intensity of counseling services to each patient’s clinical progress. Adherence to a counseling schedule is reinforced through the linking of counseling attendance with the patient’s methadone dispensing schedule and, ultimately, his or her ability to continue receiving treatment services. The article describes the scientific evidence supporting the major elements of the model, the model in action, and evaluations that have been conducted to date.
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King VL, Brooner RK. Improving treatment engagement in opioid-dependent outpatients with a motivated stepped-care adaptive treatment model. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf 2008; 34:209-13. [PMID: 18468359 DOI: 10.1016/s1553-7250(08)34027-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance abuse treatment programs that provide long term care that includes methadone routinely treat patients with both the chronic and severe form of opioid dependence disorder. In the early 1990s the Addiction Treatment Services clinic at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center began experiencing a growing problem with poor counseling attendance and high rates of continuing opioid and other drug use, primarily cocaine. METHODS A comprehensive and adaptive treatment model was developed that adjusts the amount of individual counseling and group therapy, medication dose, and overall monitoring, and integrates them with clinic-based behavioral reinforcement procedures to increase patients' attendance. This model of care (Motivated Stepped Care [MSC]), an adaptive stepped-care treatment approach, was implemented in 1995. RESULTS The MSC model has demonstrated large improvements in counseling attendance and rates of urine specimens testing negative for drug use. Additional work has extended the model's evaluation to other common problems-continuing unemployment and limited access to and participation in drug-free social support. CONCLUSION The MSC adaptive treatment model is a viable and effective alternative to standard treatment approaches. It is integrated with performance improvement monitoring to inform and adjust the amount of services necessary to achieve and sustain good clinical response to treatment during months and years of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Lewis King
- Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Balitmore, USA
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McLellan AT, Kemp J, Brooks A, Carise D. Improving public addiction treatment through performance contracting: the Delaware experiment. Health Policy 2008; 87:296-308. [PMID: 18325621 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2008.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2007] [Revised: 01/13/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In fiscal 2002, Delaware replaced traditional cost-reimbursement contracts with performance-based contracts for all outpatient addiction treatment programs. Incentives included 90% capacity utilization and active patient participation in treatment. One of the programs failed to meet requirements. Strategies adopted by successful programs included extended hours of operation, facility enhancements, salary incentives for counselors, and two evidence-based therapies (MI and CBT). Average capacity utilization from 2001 to 2006 went from 54% to 95%; and the average proportion of patients' meeting participation requirements went from 53% to 70%--with no notable changes in the patient population. We conclude that properly designed, program-based contract incentives are feasible to apply, welcomed by programs and may help set the financial conditions necessary to implement other evidence-based clinical efforts; toward the overall goal of improving addiction treatment.
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Abstract
Employment has been identified as an important predictor of drug abuse treatment outcome; however, employment has been measured in a variety of different ways in the drug abuse literature and typically with community samples. The present IRB-approved study used factor analysis to identify commonalities among several employment measures collected from a sample of drug court offenders who entered one of two Kentucky drug courts between March 2000 and November 2002. Measures included demographics, employment, substance use, and criminality. The factor analysis produced four employment factors: status, earnings, duration, and stability. These factors had different correlation patterns with substance use and criminality. Study limitations are noted.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Matthew Webster
- Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0086, USA.
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17
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Quaglio G, Lugoboni F, Pattaro C, Montanari L, Lechi A, Mezzelani P, Des Jarlais DC. Patients in long-term maintenance therapy for drug use in Italy: analysis of some parameters of social integration and serological status for infectious diseases in a cohort of 1091 patients. BMC Public Health 2006; 6:216. [PMID: 16928267 PMCID: PMC1570141 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-6-216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2005] [Accepted: 08/23/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heroin addiction often severely disrupts normal social functioning. The aims of this multi-centre study of heroin users in long-term replacement treatment were: i) to provide information on aspects of social condition such as employment, educational background, living status, partner status and any history of drug addiction for partners, comparing these data with that of the general population; ii) to assess the prevalence of hepatitis, syphilis and HIV, because serological status could be a reflection of the social conditions of patients undergoing replacement treatment for drug addiction; iii) to analyse possible relationships between social conditions and serological status. METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out in sixteen National Health Service Drug Addiction Units in northern Italy. The data were collected from February 1, 2002 to August 31, 2002. Recruitment eligibility was: maintenance treatment with methadone or buprenorphine, treatment for the previous six months, and at least 18 years of age. In the centres involved in the study no specific criteria or regulations were established concerning the duration of replacement therapy. Participants underwent a face-to-face interview. RESULTS The conditions of 1091 drug treatment patients were evaluated. The mean duration of drug use was 14.5 years. Duration was shorter in females, in subjects with a higher educational background, and in stable relationships. Most (68%) had completed middle school (11-14 years of age). Seventy-nine percent were employed and 16% were unemployed. Fifty percent lived with their parents, 34% with a partner and 14% alone. Males lived more frequently with their parents (55%), and females more frequently with a partner (60%). Sixty-seven percent of male patients with a stable relationship had a partner who had never used heroin. HCV prevalence was 72%, HBV antibodies were detected in 42% of patients, while 30% had been vaccinated; 12.5% of subjects were HIV positive and 1.5% were positive for TPHA. CONCLUSION A significant percentage of heroin users in treatment for opiate addiction in the cohort study have characteristics which indicate reasonable integration within broader society. We posit that the combination of effective treatment and a setting of economic prosperity may enhance the social integration of patients with a history of heroin use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Quaglio
- Medical Service for Addictive Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Fabio Lugoboni
- Medical Service for Addictive Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Cristian Pattaro
- Unit of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Department of Medicine and Public Health, University of Verona, Italy
- Unit of Genetic Epidemiology, Institute of Genetic Medicine, EURAC Research, Bolzano/Bozen, Italy
| | - Linda Montanari
- European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA), Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | - Paolo Mezzelani
- Medical Service for Addictive Disorders, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Don C Des Jarlais
- Edmond de Rothschild Foundation Chemical Dependency Institute, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York City, USA
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Staines GL, Cleland CM, Blankertz L. Counselor confounds in evaluations of vocational rehabilitation methods in substance dependency treatment. Eval Rev 2006; 30:139-70. [PMID: 16492996 DOI: 10.1177/0193841x05277084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Evaluation research on vocational counseling in substance dependency treatment should distinguish between the effects of counselors and counseling methods on clients' employment outcomes. Three experimental designs permit investigation of possible confounds between these types of effects: (a) nested designs (each counselor delivers one counseling method so counselors are nested under methods), (b) crossed designs (each counselor delivers all counseling methods so counselors are crossed with methods), and (c) no-treatment control group designs (experimental group's counselors all deliver the same method). Each design is optimal for one stage of evaluation research. No-treatment control group designs are best for exploratory evaluations of new types of vocational counseling. Nested designs are best for outcome evaluations of different types of interventions. Crossed designs are best for (causal) process evaluations of counseling methods of demonstrated efficacy. Despite the importance of methodological issues and problems, vocational rehabilitation in substance dependency treatment has a greater need for stronger interventions than better evaluation designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham L Staines
- Institute for Treatment and Services Research, National Development and Research Institutes, Inc
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Jones HE, Wong CJ, Tuten M, Stitzer ML. Reinforcement-based therapy: 12-month evaluation of an outpatient drug-free treatment for heroin abusers. Drug Alcohol Depend 2005; 79:119-28. [PMID: 16002021 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2005.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2004] [Revised: 01/03/2005] [Accepted: 01/03/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This controlled study examined the efficacy of reinforcement-based therapy (RBT) for producing enhanced abstinence outcomes over 12 months in opioid-dependent patients exiting a brief residential detoxification. Patients were randomly assigned upon completing their medically managed taper (i.e., detoxification) to RBT (N=66) or usual care (N=64) referral to community treatment programs. The 6-month RBT program offered an array of abstinence-based incentives including rent payment for recovery housing, program-led recreational activities and skills training for procuring employment. RBT produced significantly higher self-report and urinalysis-confirmed rates of abstinence from opioids and cocaine relative to usual care at 1 (42% versus 15%) and 3 (38% versus 17%) months during treatment but not at 6 or 12 months after enrollment. The RBT but not the usual care group showed significant increases in the number of days worked and the amount of legal income earned at 3, 6 and 12 months. The results of this randomized study suggest that an intensive reinforcement-based therapy that includes abstinence-based recovery housing is a promising approach; however, further research is needed to determine the role of treatment intensity and the specific efficacy of RBT's component parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendree E Jones
- Cornerstone Treatment Research Clinic, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Cornerstone D-3-E, 4940 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Abstract
Approximately 80% of parolees have a history of substance abuse and nearly all are unemployed following release from prison. Common stipulations of parole require offenders to obtain employment and to not use mood-altering substances. This article explores a series of strategies implemented from 1999 to 2001 to help offenders paroled to substance user treatment to gain employment. A total of 245 paroled offenders enrolled in an outpatient substance abuse treatment program voluntarily agreed to participate in one of four different vocational intervention programs (Job Skill Development and Supported Work, Life Skill Development, Job Training, and Welfare to Work). Programmatic data (e.g., attendance, completion, job acquisition, and wage) were collected and reported for each of the vocational programs. Additionally, a 12-month pilot study examined criminal justice, substance use, and employment outcomes of 36 offenders referred to the job skill development and supported work project. Overall, 78% of the offenders enrolled in the vocational services completed the program and 134/245 (55%) were able to obtain employment. The data showed that completion of vocational services was strongly associated with obtaining employment 12 months postenrollment. Offenders identified the employment services as an integral part of their improved overall functioning. A series of practice recommendations and policy suggestions is offered to develop and manage vocational services for substance-using offenders. Employment services for parolees require considerable coordination of activities with parole officers, vocational programs, substance abuse treatment professionals, and funding systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Kemp
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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21
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Gold PB, Meisler N, Duross D, Bailey L. Employment outcomes for hard-to-reach persons with chronic and severe substance use disorders receiving assertive community treatment. Subst Use Misuse 2004; 39:2425-89. [PMID: 15603010 DOI: 10.1081/ja-200034667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Many persons with chronic and severe substance use disorders (SUDs) enter and exit public substance dependence treatment systems with limited benefit, but continue overuse of high-cost health and human services. Less than a third holds jobs, earning income below U.S. federal poverty levels. Long-term integrated substance dependency treatment, rehabilitation, and support services will be essential to resolve substance dependence and employment problems. This single-group program evaluation reports adaptation of Assertive Community Treatment (ACT), a multi-component, team-based service model originally designed for persons with severe mental illnesses and multiple disabilities, for effectiveness with persons with severe SUDs. The ACT model delivers an integrated package of treatment, rehabilitation, and support to reduce substance misuse and increase employment. Of the 35 clients admitted 12 months prior to conclusion of this 2-year service demonstration, only one left treatment prematurely. Generally, clients modestly reduced substance misuse and increased employment. However, the evaluation design and small sample limit inferences of causation and generalizability of these promising outcomes. Persuading states to adopt expensive team-based approaches for this population will require firm evidence of favorable cost-benefit ratios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul B Gold
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Employment is associated with improved treatment outcome for opioid-dependent outpatients receiving methadone (e.g., Platt, 1995). Opioid-dependent individuals typically enter treatment unemployed and many remain unemployed despite reductions in heroin use. Additional interventions are needed to motivate employment seeking behaviors and outcome. This article reports on a promising approach to reduce the chronic unemployment commonplace in treatment-seeking, opioid-dependent patients--a "stepped care" service delivery intervention that incorporates multiple behavioral reinforcements to motivate patient participation in and adherence to the treatment plan. This therapeutic approach (Motivated Stepped Care--MSC; Brooner and Kidorf (2002) was refined and modified to motivate and support a range of positive treatment behaviors and outcomes in patients with opioid-dependence (Kidorf et al. 1999), including job-seeking and acquisition. Patients who are unemployed after one year of treatment are systematically advanced to more intensive steps of weekly counseling and remain there until employment is attained. Those who remain unemployed despite exposure to at least 4 weeks of counseling at the highest step of care (Step 3, which is 9 h weekly of counseling) are started on a methadone taper in preparation for discharge, which is reversible upon attaining a job. This article describes the MSC approach and presents rates of employment for patients who were judged capable of working (n = 228). A review of medical and billing records during August--September 2002 revealed that the great majority of these patients were employed (93%), usually in full-time positions. Employment was associated with less frequent advancement to higher intensities of weekly counseling because of drug use. Further, multiple indices of improved employment stability and functioning, including months of work, hours of work, and annualized salary, were associated with better drug use outcomes. These data suggest that the MSC intervention is an effective platform for motivating and supporting both job seeking and employment in patients with chronic and severe substance use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kidorf
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
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Abstract
This paper describes the consequences of changing from methadone maintenance treatment focussed primarily on elimination of all illicit drug use and social reintegration to patient-centred care. Counselling (formerly mandatory) became optional, patients were retained in treatment despite continued illicit drug use, the ceiling on methadone doses was removed, patient input became a part of methadone prescribing and the number of patients in treatment more than doubled. Across three cohorts (before, during and after the program was redesigned) the mean daily dose of methadone increased (50.4 mg +/- 2.5, 72.6 mg +/- 2.4, 92.2 mg +/- 4.0, respectively). The number of physician visits increased linearly with cohort while the number of therapist visits was unchanged overall. Two-year treatment retention was not significantly different (73%, 69% and 67%, respectively). In all three cohorts there was a significant reduction in opioid and benzodiazepine use but not cocaine use over the first six months of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Brands
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Abstract
This article describes four alternative models for the role of client work in substance dependency treatment. The most common model is Work as a Positive Outcome, which conceptualizes work (employment) as a desirable outcome of treatment. The Work Infusion Model conceptualizes work as a therapeutic factor in treatment. The Contingent Sanctions Model requires clients to work to avoid undesirable consequences, such as losing treatment. The Work as Reinforcement Model offers paid work as a reward for treatment adherence. This article discusses whether either standard substance dependency treatment or vocational services within treatment programs increase client employment, whether clients want to work, and whether sufficient services are available. The empirical support for each model of client work is summarized. Critical issues that must be addressed in this area are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Magura
- National Development and Research Institutes, Inc., New York, New York 10010, USA.
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Gerra G, Ferri M, Polidori E, Santoro G, Zaimovic A, Sternieri E. Long-term methadone maintenance effectiveness: psychosocial and pharmacological variables. J Subst Abuse Treat 2003; 25:1-8. [PMID: 14512102 DOI: 10.1016/s0740-5472(03)00031-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Data were collected from 265 heroin-dependent patients in long-term methadone maintenance treatment for methadone dosage, administration method, illicit drug and problematic alcohol use, psychiatric diagnoses, quality of interpersonal relationships, employment, legal problems, health, and cravings. Patients receiving higher methadone doses (more than 80 mg) were more likely to respond to methadone treatment than patients receiving lower doses. Superior outcome was also related to good quality of interpersonal relationships, stable employment, and lower craving scores. Comorbid psychiatric disorders did not appear to influence methadone effectiveness, but psychopharmacological treatment associated with methadone was associated with a lower rate of urine samples positive for drug use. Administration of methadone weekly or twice weekly ("home methadone") was less effective than daily administration. Although our results were obtained through a descriptive study, which does not permit a prospective evaluation, they suggest the need for higher methadone doses. Job and family relationships appear to be associated, together with psychopharmacological treatment, with a more effective outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilberto Gerra
- Addiction Research Center, Servizio Tossicodipendenze, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale, Parma, Via Spalato 2, 43100 Parma, Italy.
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Bouhnik AD, Chesney M, Carrieri P, Gallais H, Moreau J, Moatti JP, Obadia Y, Spire B. Nonadherence among HIV-infected injecting drug users: the impact of social instability. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2002; 31 Suppl 3:S149-53. [PMID: 12562040 DOI: 10.1097/00126334-200212153-00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The authors tested the impact of social instability on adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) among patients infected with HIV through injection drug use (IDU; MANIF2000 cohort). In the study, they analyzed sociodemographic baseline characteristics to develop an indicator of social instability. Information concerning adherence to HAART was collected through questionnaires during a 2-year follow-up period. Factors associated with nonadherence were studied in two different groups: 1) patients who had stopped injection drug use (ex-IDUs) and who were not in drug maintenance programs (DMT) during the entire follow-up period, and 2) those who were still opiate dependent. Among the 210 eligible patients, 114 were classified as ex-IDUs and 96 as opiate dependent. Ex-IDUs reported nonadherence behaviors in 96 of 384 visits (25.0%), while opiate-dependent patients were nonadherent in 111 of 308 visits (36.0%; p = .02). Among ex-IDUs, the only factor associated with nonadherence was social instability, while among opiate-dependent patients, injection behavior was the only determinant of nonadherence behavior. For opiate-dependent patients, DMT may enhance adherence to HAART, but only if it is successful in reducing abuse of injection practices. For ex-IDUs, it is very important that the management of social difficulties be taken into account to increase adherence to HAART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Déborah Bouhnik
- Regional Center for Disease Control of Southeastern France (ORS PACA), Marseilles, France
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King VL, Stoller KB, Hayes M, Umbricht A, Currens M, Kidorf MS, Carter JA, Schwartz R, Brooner RK. A multicenter randomized evaluation of methadone medical maintenance. Drug Alcohol Depend 2002; 65:137-48. [PMID: 11772475 DOI: 10.1016/s0376-8716(01)00155-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Methadone medical maintenance (MMM) is a rational, cost-effective method to match treatment intensity to level of needed services. In the present study, 73 highly stable methadone maintenance patients were randomly assigned to either a routine methadone treatment, MMM--a once monthly reporting schedule--at the methadone maintenance program or MMM at a physician office. A 'stepped care' intensified treatment approach was used for patients who had drug-positive urine specimens or failed the medication recall procedure. Patients left two urine specimens for analysis each month (at least one on a random basis) and responded to one medication recall each month. Results are presented for the first 6 months of the 1-year trial. Only 1% of urine specimens were positive for illicit drugs, there was no evidence of methadone diversion and there were very low rates of medication misuse, with no between group differences. MMM patients initiated more new employment or family/social activities than the routine care patients. MMM patients were more satisfied with their treatment than the routine treatment patients, but all patients rated themselves satisfied or very satisfied with their treatment. Stepped care was well-tolerated and helped match patients to an appropriate intensity of service. The good outcomes observed with the present sample suggest that MMM can be implemented effectively as part of a continuum of care in clinic and office-based sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van L King
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Behavioral Biology Research Center, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Ste. 1500, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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Zanis DA, Coviello D, Alterman AI, Appling SE. A community-based trial of vocational problem-solving to increase employment among methadone patients. J Subst Abuse Treat 2001; 21:19-26. [PMID: 11516923 DOI: 10.1016/s0740-5472(01)00177-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Unemployment remains a common problem among methadone patients. This study examined the effectiveness of the Vocational Problem-Solving Skills (VPSS) intervention to help unemployed methadone patients obtain employment. METHODS 109 patients were randomly assigned to receive 10 sessions of either VPSS (n=62) or Interpersonal Problem-Solving (IPS) (n=47). Fourteen counselors from two methadone programs were trained to deliver both the VPSS and IPS counseling sessions. RESULTS Overall, 93% (101/109) of the patients completed a 6-month follow-up assessment which revealed that 58.6% (34/58) of patients in the VPSS condition were employed, whereas 37.2% (16/43) in the comparison condition worked (chi-square=4.53, 1 df, p<0.05). However, a multinomial regression equation found that the VPSS intervention did not significantly contribute to the prediction of employment. Other factors such as longer length of previous work experience, 40 years of age or older, treatment site, and baseline patient motivation to work emerged as significant predictors. CONCLUSION Although VPSS alone was not a strong independent predictor of improved employment functioning, improvements in employment functioning were detected at one of the two sites as a function of VPSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Zanis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Abstract
Employment interventions implemented in drug treatment programs have been marginally successful, but few interventions have been found to address the needs of chronically unemployed clients. Employment case management (ECM) is a comprehensive employment intervention strategy designed to motivate chronically unemployed persons to engage in work, assist in job placement, and provide post employment support through workforce integration, while maintaining progress in drug treatment. This clinical case study reports on a convenience sample of 10 chronically unemployed methadone maintained clients who voluntarily enrolled in the ECM project. Clients received individual ECM services for a period of 26 weeks. Clients were assessed at two- and eight-month follow-up intervals. Nine of the 10 clients were employed at the two-month follow-up assessment and six maintained employment at the eight-month follow-up. Moreover, three clients were able to successfully transition from welfare to competitive private sector employment. Preliminary data suggest that ECM may be an effective intervention strategy to help chronically unemployed methadone clients obtain and maintain employment. Qualitatively, clients reported that post employment intervention services such as motivational counseling, problem solving, and employer advocacy helped sustain employment.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Zanis
- Graduate School of Social Work, Marywood University, Scranton, Pennsylvania 18509, USA.
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