Operational and clinical procedures of heroin-assisted treatment in Switzerland: a nation-wide survey study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Heroin-assisted treatment (HAT) was introduced in Switzerland in 1994 and comprises the prescription of diacetylmorphine (DAM, heroin) for patients with severe opioid use disorder. Provision of Swiss HAT is limited to specialised treatment centres, 22 of which operate today. The aim of this study was to assess the characteristics and clinical procedures of these centres.

Methods

A questionnaire was designed and sent out to all operating Swiss HAT centres.

Results

The response rate was 91% and all questionnaires were filled in by the medical heads of the corresponding centres. All centres employed psychiatrists and prescribed psychiatric medication. Additionally, 85% reported to offer in-house psychotherapeutic treatment and 95% reported to employ social wor

SUBMITTER: Meyer M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12542192 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature