Experiences of GP support from people with histories of addiction
Summary:
A total of 25 BSURF members participated in this discussion. All had suffered from periods of addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. A general discussion around the topic of health was started and Healthwatch recorded the comments made.
A number of topics/themes arose from the discussion including:
- GP knowledge of addiction
- Management of addiction to painkillers
- Prescriptions vs talking therapies
- Stigma
- Specialist addiction services appointments and waiting times
- Beacon house
- Access to support whilst awaiting specialist service support
- Importance of employment
- Services working together
Conclusions:
People in recovery find little understanding in terms of GP services. They feel GP’s are ill equipped to deal with addictions and as a result appear to be adding to the problems.
For those awaiting specialist support, interim support services are not available or accessible meaning individuals are left feel alone which again adds to their problems.
Recommendations including additional information, training and clinical support for GP’s in respect of those working with those with histories of addiction were advised following this piece of research.
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