Opiate overdose and health treatment options for opiate users in New South Wales, 1999–2002

Abstract

This article describes trends in, and basic demographics of, fatal and non-fatal opiate overdose in New South Wales between January 1999 and June 2002. Comparative trends in access to health treatment over this period are discussed, and the relationship of these trends to the enhancements provided through the NSW Drug Summit, and the heroin drought, are explored.