The literature on patents in methadone treatment identifies several services that are particularly useful and appropriate for the effective participation of the growing number of women opioid addicts. Methadone treatment poses a unique setting for addressing a number of these needs by offering special services such as (1) on-site child care and child care vouchers, (2) gender matching of counselor and patient, (3) family and social services, (4) life skills training, (5) medical assistance, and (6) psychological counseling. This paper presents baseline data on 1806 women patients treated in methadone programs across the country; and reviews their treatment needs in relation to the availability and utilization of special services supporting their participation in treatment. Data were collected as part of a national survey of Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) conducted for the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) during 1998 and 1999. Data were collected from site directors and patients at 108 clinics in 14 states, where women patients make up a significant proportion of the sample (41.3% of 4,374). Response from site directors suggest wide variability among clinics in terms of special services offered. For example, none of the clinics offered all six services, and 8 clinics (7.4%) provided none of the services. Services most often offered by clinics are reviewed, and substance use and health status of women at these clinics are examined.
Learning Objectives: (1)Participants will be able to identify special needs and services of women required for their greater involvement in treatment. (2)Participants will gain a greater understanding of the current provision and use of special services toward reducing barriers to full participation in treatment.
Keywords: Women, Methadone Maintenance
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