From Streets to Sidewalks: Developments in Primary Care Services for Injecting Drug Users

Abstract

Primary Health Care for the Injecting Drug User (IDU) has been established in Victoria in recognition of the serious health needs of IDUs, which require a relevant and effective response. Research shows the medical consequences that flow from drug abuse, ranging from the onset of blood borne viruses to cardiovascular conditions, and the propensity of drug users to access health services only through accident and emergency areas of hospitals. In 1999, the Victorian government announced the funding of five Local Drug Strategies in five of Melbourne's 'hotspot' street drug areas to address both the needs of users and communities in relation to substance abuse. This funding was an impetus to establish and trial the concept of primary health services, combining both a fixed site and a mobile outreach service. These services are designed to meet the primary health needs of street-based injecting drug users who are at high risk of experiencing overdose or other forms of drug-related harm.