The perceptions and aspirations illicit drug users hold toward healthcare staff and the care they receive, 2000
In order to understand the experiences that drug users have of healthcare and health staff, focus group methodology was employed to obtain qualitative data.
A total of 20 illicit drug users from across Northern Ireland took part. All had experienced "care" that they felt was filled with judgement, hostility and loathing. They recognised clearly the challenge they pose to healthcare staff. The study found that there is dissonance between those tasked to care for drug users and drug users themselves, with little respect being shown from either side.
Results suggest that action needs to be taken to address the deficits in the knowledge, skills and values of healthcare professionals in relation to illicit drug users.
More information on this report is available from Derek McLaughlin. Email: DerekMclaughlin@compuserve.com
Reference
- McLaughlin D. The perceptions and aspirations illicit drug users hold toward health care staff and the care they receive. Journal of Psychiatric and mental health nursing. Vol 7 no 5, pages 435-441. London, Blackwell Science, 2000.
