Opioid pharmacotherapy, or opioid agonist treatment (OAT), involves the prescription of long-acting opioids (methadone or buprenorphine) administered orally, sublingually or via subcutaneous injection, for opioid use disorder. Traditionally, OAT has been provided by primary care (GPs and community pharmacies) or specialist addiction services.

What is the purpose of this research?

Many people who struggle with mental illness and substance use or addiction issues face difficulties when trying to access opioid pharmacotherapy. Surprisingly, these challenges have not been formally studied.

Our research aims to investigate the provision of opioid pharmacotherapy to clients within Victoria's Area Mental Health and Wellbeing Services. We hope to identify areas or services that require additional educational support or resources.

We welcome participation from workers across Victoria’s Area Mental Health and Wellbeing Services, regardless of their experience or practice settings - including those in regional, metropolitan, inpatient, and community environments.

Participation details:

To participate in this study, you will need to complete an anonymous online survey. The survey will ask you about your experiences in providing or supporting clients who are prescribed opioid pharmacotherapy. Your participation is voluntary and will take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. Click here to access the survey.

Benefits and Risks:

By participating, you can help identify service gaps and barriers, allowing us to tailor training and resources for clinicians and ultimately enhance support for clients with mental illness and substance use or addiction issues. There are no expected risks or disadvantages associated with participation.

Withdrawal and Conclusion:

This survey is now closed.

Contact information:

For further information or queries, please get in touch with the researchers via email: [email protected] or [email protected].