YMCA Together leads the way in opiate substitution treatment
YMCA Together’s pioneering initiatives are proving to be a potent tool in improving access to treatment for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).
A 2019 study shows hostels that provide Opiate Substitution Treatment (OST) can help people reduce engaging in risky behaviour associated with active involvement in illicit drug use.
The University of Liverpool report also demonstrates that direct access to a methadone and buprenorphine dispensing system and a weekly in-reach clinic help remove the significant barriers people experiencing homelessness face when attempting to access and follow treatment plans for OUD.
In this article, we’ll explore the positive impact of OST interventions, particularly those available at YMCA Together services, and the additional benefits they offer to residents involved in the misuse of illicit drugs.
What is OST?
Opiate Substitution Treatment is a process where people who are dependent on heroin or other opioids are offered substitute drugs such as methadone or buprenorphine.
YMCA Together delivers two methods of OST across our services, including Florence House, Lister Road, Ullet Road and Hestia House.
Method One, described above, provides residents direct access to a daily-observed, secure opiate substitute dispensing system and a weekly in-reach clinic staffed by a nurse prescriber and recovery worker.
Method Two provides residents direct access to the weekly in-reach clinic with a nurse prescriber and recovery worker.
Why is OST a vital service?
Findings from the University of Liverpool report show that OST interventions can:
- Increase treatment participation, retention and compliance
- Reduce substance misuse
- Reduce instances of methadone and buprenorphine diversion .
- Reduce cases of naloxone administration
- Reduce high-risk and anti-social behaviour.
- Improve mental and physical wellbeing and resilience amongst hostel residents.
Additional benefits of OST interventions include:
- Greater patient satisfaction and self-belief.
- Enhanced partnership working between hostel providers and drug treatment services.
- Greater continuity of care and stronger therapeutic relationships between opiate-using patients and their recovery workers.
- Space for patients to make positive decisions for the future
These positive outcomes are a testament to the YMCA Together’s caring, people-first approach. We’re one of only two organisations on Merseyside that offers safe, supervised Opiate Substitution Therapy.
How does OST work?
A nurse prescriber from Brooke Place prescribes opiate substitution medication to residents within the service and Practice Pharmacy Direct delivers safe medication to people actively involved in taking illicit substances. OST offers stability to residents through baseline access to medicines that are available on prescription and administered at appropriate intervals with the support of a key worker.
This process reduces involvement in the risky behaviour and criminality that users of illicit substances may otherwise undertake in an attempt to access opiates.
OST also increases the uptake of additional support services available at YMCA Together premises, including leg ulcer clinics and Hepatitis C treatment services.
What other services complement OST?
YMCA Together provides a comprehensive range of additional services to support our residents in their recovery from opiate misuse.
Our on-site needle exchange and Harm Reduction Services offers access to clean equipment, advice, and support, allowing people to improve personal safety and reduce the stigma associated with illicit drug use. This open, nonjudgmental approach encourages open conversation, removes barriers, and improves overall physical health of individuals experiencing challenging times in their lives.
We also offer RISE Recovery and a new Prehab service which prepares people for longer term recovery pathways.
Our Leeds Street Skin Team can treat ulcerated legs and other illnesses associated with opiate misuse, making sure people are cared for.
Meanwhile, our unique approach to administering opiate overdose reversal drug Naloxone is a critical, life-saving programme.
What next for OST and related services?
As the University of Liverpool study shows, people manage better when we work with them.
That’s why YMCA Together offers unconditional support to people experiencing challenging times.
We’ll continue to evolve our services, address gaps in provision and develop initiatives to give people hope and help them make positive changes in their lives.