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Heroin Addiction and Related Clinical Problems: 2007, 09, 3 (pages: 31 - 40)

Supporting GP's in Improving Substitute Prescribing for Opiate Users in UK General Practice

Ford C.

Summary: UK General Practice is now undertaking an increasing role in drug treatment but it hasn't always been that way. Over the previous 20-30 years, much of the drug treatment in the UK has been poor with little involvement of General Practice. From the mid 90s there was the beginning of government support for general practice to be involved in this area of work. Many developments have occurred which have try to address the barriers and provide support such as 1) A network of support and training; 2) An annual conference, a newsletter and web site; 3) The RCGP Certificate course and 4) Writing of guidance's specifically for care in general practice. All these measures have begun to change the face of drug treatment in the UK from general practice undertaking less than 5% to now about 30% and still rising.