1220Barriers to care for people who use crystal methamphetamine. (2nd September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kershaw, Steph; Chapman, Cath; Birrell, Louise; Champion, Katrina; Deen, Hannah; Stapinski, Lexine; Kay-Lambkin, Honorary Frances; Teesson, Maree; Newton, Nicola
• Is Part Of: International journal of epidemiology. Volume 50(2021)Supplement 1
• Publication Date: 2021-09-02
• Subjects: Epidemiology -- Periodicals; 614.4
• DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyab168.340
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-5771

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Crystal methamphetamine ('ice') causes significant societal harm in Australia and is perceived by the public to be the drug of most concern nationally. Although effective treatments exist, it is estimated that only a third of people dependent on amphetamine-type stimulants receive treatment each year. Barriers to care may for people who use ice can include psychosocial (e.g., knowledge, attitudinal) and structural barriers. This study aimed to look at the perceived and actual barriers to care for Australians, as well as help-seeking behaviours among people who use ice. Methods: An online survey was conducted among 2, 110 Australians including people with lived experience, health workers, affected family members/friends and community members. All participants were asked about perceived barriers to care. People with lived experience were asked additional questions about help seeking. Results: Attitudinal reasons were the highest perceived barrier to care among 63.1% of participants, followed by knowledge (21.9%). People with lived experience were more likely to endorse attitudinal barriers (OR 1.35), whereas health workers were more likely to endorse knowledge related barriers (OR 0.69). Among people with lived experience who had sought help, 74.5% had visited a counsellor/psychologist and 60.6% had asked help from a family member/friend. Conclusions: Understanding and reducing barriers to care is essential to reduce the harms associated with the drug. It is important to support families and friends as they are often asked to help or support a loved one using ice. Key messages: It is important to understand and reduce the perceived and actual barriers to care for people who use ice. This is essential to reduce the harms associated with the drug.