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SPH researchers have released a review of the barriers to accessing methamphetamine treatment identified in the literature, identifying important aspects that need to be considered in order to improve interventions.

Researchers Craig Cumming, Lakkhina Troeng, Erin Kelty and David Preen (UWA's School of Population Health) and Jesse Young (Uni Melbourne's School of Population & Global Health and Curtin's National Drug Research Institute) have released a systematic review and meta-analysisr of the barriers to accessing methamphetamine treatment identified in the literature.

Methamphetamine use is associated with a range of poor health, social and justice outcomes.
In many parts of the world increased methamphetamine use has been identified as a major public
health concern. Methamphetamine treatment programmes have been effective in reducing and ceasing
use, however a range of barriers have prevented these programmes being widely adopted by methamphetamine
users. This review examines the barriers to accessing meth/amphetamine treatment identified
in the literature, including studies conducted in 5 countries.

It was found that the primary barriers to accessing methamphetamine treatment are psychosocial/internal; the. most prevalent barrier was stigma/embarrassment. Other psychosocial barriers included confidentiality/privacy issues, implications for child custody arrangements and lack of motivation. Practical or service-related barriers included insufficient places, waiting times, affordability and suitability of services and service provider staff attitudes.

Services and treatment models that address these barriers are urgently required. There is a growing need
for methamphetamine-appropriate treatment services. Further research evaluating treatment engagement
and effectiveness for methamphetamine and polysubstance use, including the development of
effective pharmacotherapies is warranted.

This paper is published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence (2016) 168:263-273

Media references

Craig Cumming (Research Officer): +61 8 6488 1317

Fiona Maley (Marketing Coordinator): +61 8 6488 1299