Скачать или смотреть Integrating harm reduction strategies into hospital settings for people who use Methamphetamine

Authors:
Forchuk, C., Silverman, M., Anderson, K., Rudnick, A., & Isaranuwatchai, W.

Abstract:
Introduction: Harm reduction strategies for methamphetamine use are currently not implemented within hospital settings in Canada. However, a recent study in London, Ontario found that methamphetamine use in hospitals poses a greater risk of infection than in the community (Tan et al., 2020). This study aims to identify, implementand evaluate harm reduction strategies for methamphetamine use.

Method: This study will recruit up to 360 adults (aged 16-85 years) from hospital and community programs with past or current use of methamphetamine, including those in recovery. In Years 1,3 and 4, up to 120 individuals will be recruited for a mixed method, individual interview. Up to 60 health care/service providers will be invited to participate in qualitative interviews (focus groups when safe) for their perspectives on harm reduction strategies. In Year 2, the identified strategies will be implemented into hospital settings. A standardized evaluation framework will observe systematic effectiveness, economic, ethical, and policy implications.

Preliminary Findings: Demographic data and qualitative findings from Year 1 participants will be reported as well as health care/service provider qualitative data. Recommendations for harm reduction strategies based on participants and health care/service provider suggestions will be discussed in addition to participants descriptions of experiences unique to this population.

Discussion: Implementation of harm reduction strategies within the hospital setting could have a profound impact on the patient population who use methamphetamine by allowing for greater care and decreasing adverse health outcomes. This project represents a potentially ground-breaking shift towards improved health care for substance users in Canada.