Southeast Asian nations, including Thailand the place drug use remains a big concern, ought to contemplate adopting the mannequin of Australia’s first permanent health and drug checking service, CanTEST, which was launched in Canberra around 9 months ago.
Operating on Smuggled -reduction foundation, CanTEST goals to make sure the protection of drug customers by preventing adverse reactions. The service is totally confidential, with no ID required, and is obtainable freed from cost. Users are requested to signal a waiver stating that they understand the risks related to drug use.
However, CanTEST goes beyond drug checking by offering health professionals or peer educators to supply tailored info, counselling, and recommendation to customers based mostly on their specific test results. This proactive strategy retains the users informed about their well being and safety. Stephanie Stephens, Services Manager at CanTEST, said…
“We don’t inform them that they have to not do this or shouldn’t do that. But we’ll give them suggestions and advice that they’ll resolve on about their drug use.”
Stephens believes that countries in Southeast Asia, similar to Thailand, may study from and implement the CanTEST model, citing cost-effectiveness in comparability with overdose management in hospitals. She additionally famous the help CanTEST has acquired from the local Canberra group, which has not encountered any opposition.
The facility is located in central Canberra, within easy reach of public transport, and facilitates entry for customers who need their medication tested. Since its inception, over 800 customers have accessed the service.
Dr David Caldicott, Clinical Lead for Pill Testing Australia and CanTEST, emphasised that the success of the model lies in its communication technique. By offering accurate, evidence-based information about particular medication and their potential effects, they keep away from exaggeration and promote honesty. The facility has established a two-tier warning system, with yellow warnings issued for less severe risks and red alerts for extra dangerous findings.
One person, a 21-year-old often known as Rosie, praised the service, stating…