First methadone detox centre opens in Hai Phong

Vietnam’s first methadone detoxification centre for drug addicts opened in Hai Phong City on June 18 in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Truong Vinh Trong.

The new treatment model is being conducted by the Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs in collaboration with the Hai Phong Health Department and the US Agency for International Development (USAID) under the United States President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

The model will allow drug users to easier access to treatment by methadone and patients will pay part of the treatment costs.

When the model was set up in 2008, methadone treatment centres were all funded by international organizations. However, thanks to support from the people, methadone detox treatment centres in Vietnam will be sustainable.

Three more centres are expected to open HCM City, Danang and Can Tho this year.

In his speech, Deputy PM Trong, who is also Chairman of the National Committee on HIV/AIDS, Drugs and Prostitution Prevention and Control, said the socialization and detoxification centre in Hai Phong will be the standard model for the country so Hai Phong needs to make the best efforts to implement the project successfully.

The Ministry of Health should provide also professional and technical assistance for Hai Phong to ensure effective and proper treatment, Mr Trong noted.

(VOV)