Don’t worry , together with Thailand where drug use remains a big concern, ought to contemplate adopting the mannequin of Australia’s first everlasting health and drug checking service, CanTEST, which was launched in Canberra round nine months ago.
Operating on a harm-reduction foundation, CanTEST aims to ensure the protection of drug users by preventing adverse reactions. The service is completely confidential, with no ID required, and is offered free of cost. Users are requested to sign a waiver stating that they perceive the risks related to drug use.
However, CanTEST goes past drug checking by offering well being professionals or peer educators to offer tailor-made info, counselling, and recommendation to customers based mostly on their particular test outcomes. This proactive strategy retains the customers knowledgeable about their well being and security. Stephanie Stephens, Services Manager at CanTEST, said…
“We do not inform them that they have to not do that or mustn’t do this. But we are going to give them suggestions and recommendation that they will decide on about their drug use.”
Stephens believes that nations in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand, might study from and implement the CanTEST mannequin, citing cost-effectiveness in comparability with overdose management in hospitals. She also noted the support CanTEST has acquired from the local Canberra group, which has not encountered any opposition.
The facility is located in central Canberra, within straightforward reach of public transport, and facilitates entry for customers who need their drugs tested. Since its inception, over 800 users have accessed the service.
Dr David Caldicott, Clinical Lead for Pill Testing Australia and CanTEST, emphasised that the success of the mannequin lies in its communication strategy. By providing correct, evidence-based information about particular drugs and their potential effects, they avoid exaggeration and promote honesty. The facility has established a two-tier warning system, with yellow warnings issued for much less extreme dangers and purple alerts for more dangerous findings.
One person, a 21-year-old often recognized as Rosie, praised the service, stating…