Original research
by
Mamakwa, Solomon et al
Release Date
2017
Geography
Canada
Language of Resource
English
Full Text Available
Yes
Open Access / OK to Reproduce
No
Peer Reviewed
Yes
Objective
To evaluate established opioid addiction treatment programs that use traditional healing in combination with buprenorphine-naloxone maintenance treatment in 6 First Nations communities in the Sioux Lookout region of northwestern Ontario.
Findings/Key points
The program’s treatment retention rates and negative UDS results were higher than those reported for most methadone and buprenorphine-naloxone programs, despite a patient population where severe posttraumatic stress disorder is endemic, and despite the programs’ lack of resources and addiction expertise. Community-based programs like these overcome the initial challenge of cultural competence. First Nations communities in other provinces should establish their own buprenorphinenaloxone programs, using local primary care physicians as prescribers. Sustainable core funding is needed for programming, long-term aftercare, and trauma recovery for such initiatives.
Design/methods
n=526 First Nations participants across six communities
Keywords
Evidence base
Policy/Regulatory
Wrap-around services
Safer supply
About prescribers
Social services
Outcomes
Indigenous
Rural/remote
Substitution/OAT
