Comparing the role of takeaways in methadone maintenance treatment in NSW and Victoria [ 2004 - 2006 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: E/Pr Susan Kippax (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Alex Wodak ,  Prof Carla Treloar ,  Prof Suzanne Fraser

Brief description This project will make a direct and major contribution to improving methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) provision in Australia. The recent announcement of the continuation of funding for the Federal Government's Illicit Drug Diversion Initiative demonstrates an ongoing commitment to make drug treatment programs more accessible. MMT is currently the primary treatment for opioid addiction in Australia. However, concerns about the potential negative effects of aspects of the programs, in particular, takeaway dosing and diversion of methadone to street sale (which has been linked to accidental fatal overdose (Lintzeris, et al., 1999)), remain unresolved. This study will map clients', healthcare workers' and policy makers' attitudes towards takeaways in NSW and Victoria, and investigate the dynamics of methadone diversion in relation to the different takeaway policies in the two states. In doing so, the project will consider how the two different state policies on takeaways stack up. It will contribute essential and detailed data on takeaways and diversion, from which effective, safe and socially responsible methadone maintenance treatment policy can be developed.

Funding Amount $AUD 291,000.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant