Low-threshold services for problem drug users in Hungary.
OBJECTIVE
The main objective of this study was to explore how harm reduction (HR) approach and low-threshold approach are realised at low-threshold services (LTSs) in Hungary in comparison with the guidelines presented in different policy papers (European Union drugs strategies) and national regulations.


METHODS
Hungarian LTSs were investigated: 29 organisations out of 44 (66% return rate) were reached with questionnaires and 40 LTS workers were interviewed.


RESULTS
The LTSs have difficulties reaching their target group, distributing sufficient sterile syringes and interpreting the concept of 'low-threshold' and HR, sometimes defining them as a transient stage to abstinence-based treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
The study results suggest that Hungarian LTSs need to be re-orientated toward more emphasis on health-related issues.
Melles
Katalin
K
Research Institute on Drug Studies, Eötvös University, Budapest.
Márványkövi
Ferenc
F
Rácz
Jozsef
J
D040261:Harm Reduction; D006801:Humans; D006814:Hungary; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D018671:Needle-Exchange Programs; D016320:Substance Abuse Treatment Centers; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires