SWEDEN UPPSALSA
 
Methadone Program Uppsala
The centre offers treatment of heroin addicts in the middle and northern health-care districts. It co-operates with social services and treatment clinics of infectious diseases.
The centre employs 7 people in the out-patient unit, of which one is a psychiatrist, 3 nurses, 3 social workers, a administrator and a district researcher. Treatment philosophy is based on maintenance. The average dose of methadone prescribed is 85 mg.
Next to out-patient treatment there is a 8 bed in-patient unit. The waiting list is less than 10 people.
 
Criteria for admittance:
- minimum age of 20
- documented, compulsive abuse of opioids during the last 4 years
- drug-free treatment having been tried
- voluntariness
- absence of advanced non-opioid abuse
 
The centre offers:
- medical care
- social assistance
- other medication
- psychiatric care
- psycho-therapy
- dental care
 
The centre demands:
- urine checks
- mandatory meeting with social work
 
Relapse, side abuse, non attendance for more than 3 days, violence, criminality and sentenced to jail can get a patient expelled from treatment.
 
Procedure for taking in patient on a permanent basis:
The patient has to apply directly to the Hospital or being referred by his doctor or social services. An investigation will follow by the team of the centre considering history of abuse, previous treatment, criminality, physical and mental health, upbringing, education and work experience. A decision upon acceptance is made within 14 days.
 
 
Procedures for taking patients in for a short period of time:
The centre needs to be informed beforehand by fax or letter. This letter should mention:
- identity of patient
- treatment history
- dose and period for which methadone is requested
 
When visiting the patient should bring a letter from his doctor.
There is no maximum duration of treatment
Costs involved: 86 SEK/ each methadone dose
There exist official forms for customs, medical committees etc.
 
Address:
Methadone Treatment Program
University hospital
750 17 Uppsala
Phone +46-018-6112152
Fax +46-018-6112153
Contact: LEIF GRÖNBLADH
leif.gronbladh@psyk.uas.lul.se