An investigation into the assessment and treatment service for provision in the greater Dublin area for drug users with a possible dual diagnosis
Authors
McGrane, Patrick
Issue Date
2009
Degree
MA in Addiction Studies
Publisher
Dublin Business School
Rights holder
Rights
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Abstract
This study is concerned with the fact that there is little if any diagnosis made at point of entry into drug misuse treatment programmes. It also identifies a belief among health care professionals that there is a great need for the government to carry out a prevalence study to identify accurately the numbers of people with a dual diagnosis in Ireland. A positive response to this study may add to the body of work carried out by other researchers. The research was conducted quantitatively and the research tool employed was in the form of a questionnaire. Out of a total number of forty questionnaires distributed, twenty six were completed and returned. The research population that took part consisted of professionals employed on various drugs rehabilitation programmes at the time of the research. The results demonstrate that within the drugs rehabilitation programmes involved in this research there is little if any facility for psychological assessment upon referral of the client. It is also evident from this study that staff working in this area and who participated in this research would welcome training related to the assessment and treatment of dual diagnosis. A positive outcome from this research is that staff from drugs rehabilitation organisations who took part in this study felt that if a drug user wishes to avail of these addiction services provided then there are quite a number of routes by which they can engage.