Alcohol and other drug (AOD) use is common worldwide. There is a wide spectrum of AOD issues that pose a major threat to public health, safety and the wellbeing of communities…
Abstract
Alcohol and other drug (AOD) use is common worldwide. There is a wide spectrum of AOD issues that pose a major threat to public health, safety and the wellbeing of communities, families and individuals. There is no doubt that nurses have primary roles in identifying, preventing and addressing AOD use issues in emergency departments and general hospital units, clinics, specialist mental health and drug and alcohol services, sexual health services, youth services and community settings where people seek health care and other assistance. Nurses have credibility and are trusted by communities for their ability to address many health issues, including AOD health problems. Despite the enormous economic burden associated with AOD use across the world, the nursing profession has yet to fully acknowledge and embrace this serious issue for nurses.
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Madeline Naegle, Charlotte de Crespigny and Hussein Rassool
Charlotte de Crespigny, Mette Grønkjær, Dennis Liu, John Moss, Imelda Cairney, Nicholas Procter, Miriam Posselt, Hepsibah Sharmil Francis Jebaraj, Tim Schultz, Andris Banders, Rosie King, Deb Lee and Cherrie Galletly
The purpose of this paper is to elicit clinicians’ and workers’ knowledge, experiences and opinions of key issues pertaining to comorbidity service needs of people aged 12 years…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to elicit clinicians’ and workers’ knowledge, experiences and opinions of key issues pertaining to comorbidity service needs of people aged 12 years and over in a metropolitan region of South Australia.
Design/methodology/approach
As one component of a participatory action research project, this qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with mental health (MH) and alcohol and other drug (AOD) clinicians and workers (n=20).
Findings
The participants expressed concerns involving stigma towards their clients. They highlighted lack of adequate MH and AOD comorbidity service accessibility and models, regularly available clinical comorbidity workforce development, and practice supervision and skills training. These factors influenced participants’ and their colleagues’ capacity and ability to access and provide appropriate help for people needing integrated treatment and care of their co-existing comorbid conditions.
Practical implications
Findings highlight the need for coordinated and integrated, individualised holistic comorbidity services, including treatment and care best suited to Aboriginal people and refugees.
Originality/value
This study emphasises the importance of government and non-government MH and AOD services ensuring that comorbidity is responded to collaboratively and systemically. It also demonstrates the importance of professional development.