How to overcome hurdles in opiate substitution treatment? A qualitative study with general practitioners in Belgium. (2nd April 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fraeyman, Jessica; Symons, Linda; Van Royen, Paul; Van Hal, Guido; Peremans, Lieve
• Is Part Of: European journal of general practice. Volume 22:Number 2(2016:Jun.)
• Page Start: 134
• Page End: 140
• Publication Date: 2016-04-02
• Subjects: Public health -- community medicine -- healthcare organization -- qualitative methods; Family medicine -- Periodicals; 362.172
• DOI: 10.3109/13814788.2015.1120286
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1381-4788

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Opiate substitution treatment (OST) is the administration of opioids (methadone or buprenorphine) under medical supervision for opiate addiction. Several studies indicate a large unmet need for OST in general practice in Antwerp, Belgium. Some hurdles remain before GPs engage in OST prescribing. Objectives: Formulate recommendations to increase engagement of GPs in OST, applicable to Belgium and beyond. Methods: In 2009, an exploratory qualitative research was performed using focus group discussions and interviews with GPs. During data collection and analysis, purposive sampling, open and axial coding was applied. The script was composed around the advantages, disadvantages and conditions of engaging in OST in general practice. Results: We conducted six focus groups and two interviews, with GPs experienced in prescribing OST ( n = 13), inexperienced GPs ( n = 13), and physicians from addiction centres ( n = 5). Overall, GPs did not seem very willing to prescribe OST for opiate users. A lack of knowledge about OST and misbehaving patients creates anxiety and makes the GPs reluctant to learn more about OST. The GPs refer to a lack of collaboration with the addiction centres and a need of support (from either addiction centres or experienced GP-colleagues for advice). Important conditions for OST are acceptance of only stable opiate users and more support in emergencies. Conclusion: Increasing GPs' knowledge about OST and improving collaboration with addiction centres are essential to increase the uptake of OST in general practice. Special attention could be paid to the role of more experienced colleagues who can act as advising physicians for inexperienced GPs.