International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

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If They Cannot Pay for Everything: Overcoming Barriers to Accessing and Utilising Formal Rehabilitation for People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) in Ga East Municipality, Ghana

Author(s) Prince Caesar Tampah, Safiatu Iddrisu
Country Ghana
Abstract This study assessed the views and experiences of service providers and individuals who have gone through rehabilitation for substance abuse in the Ga East Municipality of Ghana. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with rehabilitation healthcare providers and individuals who have received rehabilitation care. The study found that there is a significant gap in the provision of rehabilitation care for substance abuse in Ghana, with only a limited number of facilities available particularly outside of urban areas. The cost of treatment was identified as a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly for those from low-income backgrounds. The quality of care provided in rehabilitation facilities was also a concern for participants, with many noting shortfalls in standardisation across facilities. This study underscores the critical need for enhanced public education regarding substance abuse and its available treatment options. Additionally, it highlights the significant gaps in Ghana's rehabilitation care provision for substance abuse and emphasises the urgency of addressing these gaps. This includes initiatives aimed at improving access to care, enhancing the quality of care provided with a specific focus on implementing patient-centered approaches and reducing stigma. The study offers recommendations, including the enhancement of regulatory frameworks and low-cost rehabilitation facilities. Furthermore, the study advocates for subsidising treatment costs or incorporating them into health insurance plans, coupled with increased public education and support programs, thus providing valuable insights that can inform the development of evidence-based policies and interventions for rehabilitation care in Ghana. By addressing the identified gaps in access and utilisation of rehabilitation healthcare provision, such policies and interventions could contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, particularly Target 3.5 which focuses on strengthening the prevention of drug use and improving access to effective treatment services for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Keywords People Who Use Drugs, Rehabilitation, Substance Abuse, Access, Barriers, Utilisation
Field Sociology > Health
Published In Volume 6, Issue 3, May-June 2024
Published On 2024-06-20
Cite This If They Cannot Pay for Everything: Overcoming Barriers to Accessing and Utilising Formal Rehabilitation for People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) in Ga East Municipality, Ghana - Prince Caesar Tampah, Safiatu Iddrisu - IJFMR Volume 6, Issue 3, May-June 2024. DOI 10.36948/ijfmr.2024.v06i03.22869
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2024.v06i03.22869
Short DOI https://doi.org/gt2bzt

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