Authors: Amanda R Liberman, Yelena Rozental, Roman Ivasiy, Ainur Zh Kussainova, Sholpan Primbetova, Lynn M Madden, Assel Terlikbayeva, Frederick L Altice
In Kazakhstan, methadone is a free treatment for opioid use disorder, but few people who need it are using it. This study explored barriers to methadone access among people who inject drugs (PWID), healthcare providers, and policymakers. Key challenges included concerns about methadone safety, strict entry requirements, and limited availability. Clinicians and community health workers (CHWs) identified misinformation as a major barrier. Clients wanted more flexible dosing, while clinicians prioritized easing treatment access. To improve methadone use, efforts should focus on simplifying the enrollment process, expanding access, and increasing awareness about its benefits.
Link: Exploration of the multi-level barriers to scaling up methadone for HIV prevention among people who inject drugs in Kazakhstan
Resource Topic: Drug and Substance use, HIV, HIV and AIDS
Resource Type: Evaluation
Year: 2025
Region: Asia
Country: Kazakhstan
Publisher May Restrict Access: Yes
