LogoLogoMSF Science Portal
  • My saved items
logo

© Médecins Sans Frontières

MSF Science Portal
About MSF Science Portal
About MSF
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Privacy Policy
Terms of Use

v2.1.4829.produseast1

Journal Article > Research

‘I can change my life’: perceptions and experiences of people who use drugs engaging in medically assisted therapy in Kiambu County, Kenya

Burtscher D, Riitho W, Kariuki M, Thiong’o A, Ayuaya T, Kerschberger B, Atte E, Verschuere J, Tampellini L, Pellecchia U, O’Connell L, Ellman T, Levine B, Ngethe J, Antierens A
Download
Download
Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Kiambu People Who Use Drugs (PWUD) project, which started in September 2019, had enrolled 590 PWUD in its Medically Assisted Therapy (MAT) program by April 2022. This project provides a one-stop-shop model, offering a comprehensive range of medical and psychosocial services. This study aimed to explore how PWUD navigate from heroin use to MAT enrolment.


METHODS

The study involved individual, paired and group interviews conducted between August and October 2022. Purposive sampling was applied. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded with NVivo and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Methodological triangulation enhanced interpretation.


RESULTS

PWUD faced various challenges to engage in the MAT program. Replacing heroin with MAT, the ‘medicine,’ was insufficient to ensure meaningful recovery. Engaging in MAT required personal motivation to exit the hotspots that their lives revolve around. Main barriers were coping with changed lifestyles and behavioural patterns, and the need to develop new perspectives on dealing with ‘idleness.’


CONCLUSION

The study revealed the complex realities PWUD are confronted with when trying to engage in MAT. MAT programs need to address medical, psychosocial, employment and other structural factors while supporting people to restore their broken social conditions.

Countries
Kenya
Subject Area
mental healthsubstance use disorders
DOI
10.1080/09687637.2024.2416043
Published Date
17-Nov-2024
Languages
English
Journal
Drugs: Education, Prevention and Policy
Volume / Issue / Pages
Volume Online ahead of print, Pages 1-10
Dimensions Badge