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Challenges in implementing opioid agonist therapy in Lebanon: a qualitative study from a user's perspective
Ali Ghaddar1,2, Sanaa Khandaqji3,4, Zeinab Abbass5,6
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon. ali.ghaddar@liu.edu.lb.
Opioid agonist therapy (OAT) in Lebanon improved mental and social wellbeing for compliant users but faced access inequalities. Challenges included fear of dependence and restricted geographical access to buprenorphine treatment.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Addiction Medicine
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Opioid agonist therapy (OAT) has been available in Lebanon since 2011 for opioid use disorders.
- The implementation and user experience of OAT programs in Lebanon remain unevaluated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the first pilot OAT program in Lebanon from the perspective of its users.
- To identify challenges and benefits associated with OAT implementation in the Lebanese context.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative study involving 81 male participants in an OAT program.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gather data on access, satisfaction, outcomes, and challenges.
Main Results:
- OAT improved mental and social wellbeing for users with financial access and program compliance.
- Program registration reduced arrests and economic burden for participants.
- Key challenges included fear of buprenorphine dependence, limited geographical access, and misuse/diversion.
Conclusions:
- Inequalities in OAT access represent a significant gap in Lebanon's addiction treatment management.
- Further research is needed to understand provider perspectives on OAT program implementation challenges.
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