Resources

This study outlines the results from a global survey of 77 countries with 177 respondents on the availability and accessibility of treatment and harm reduction services during the pandemic, medical and psychiatric care during the initial period of the pandemic, and health policies for COVID-19 among PWSUDs.

Participants reported that Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment and harm-reduction services had been significantly impacted globally early during the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the findings, this study highlights several issues and complications resulting from the pandemic concerning people with SUDs that should be tackled more efficiently during the future waves or similar pandemics. The issues and potential strategies comprise the following: (1) helping policymakers to generate business continuity plans, (2) maintaining the use of evidence-based interventions for people with SUDs, (3) being prepared for adequate medication supplies, (4) integrating harm reduction programs with other treatment modalities, and (5) having specific considerations for vulnerable groups such as immigrants and refugees