Report will help "end confusion about the role of doctors in drug treatment'
Sep 27, 2005 - 5:51:00 PM
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"It also highlights need for all doctors to be part of a proper clinical governance structure, with regular supervision and appraisal to ensure they have the competencies consistent with their role."
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By Royal College of Psychiatrists,
[RxPG] A recent report, published by the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) and the Royal College of General Practitioners, will help "end confusion about the role of doctors in drug treatment and ensure their skills are fully utilised", according to the National Treatment Agency for Substance Misuse (NTA).
The publication, entitled 'Roles and responsibilities of doctors in the provision of treatment for drug and alcohol misusers', is a culmination of three years work by the two leading colleges involved in the sector, with input from the National Treatment Agency and the Department of Health.
Designed as a resource for treatment commissioners, providers and doctors, the report seeks to clarify the role of different specialists, as well as the skills and competencies they require to work with drug and alcohol users. The report also provides examples of how doctors with a range of competencies, from addiction psychiatrists to GPs, can work together to provide a comprehensive range of drug treatment services in an area.
The NTA has produced a separate summary of the report focusing specifically on drug treatment.
Commenting on the publication, Dr Emily Finch, clinical psychiatrist at the NTA and member of the Addictions Executive of the RCPsych, said:
'In recent years there has been a large increase in the number of doctors working with drug users. The expansion has resulted in a mixed picture with individual doctors working in different ways with a variety of competencies. It has also meant that the full skills of some drug treatment practitioners are not been utilised.
'In the context of a wider drive by the NTA to increase the effectiveness of treatment services, this report should help clarify how local treatment systems can draw on a range of specialists to meet the needs of drug users and the skills required for each role.
'It also highlights need for all doctors to be part of a proper clinical governance structure, with regular supervision and appraisal to ensure they have the competencies consistent with their role."
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Additional information about the news article
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The National Treatment Agency (NTA) is a special health authority, established by government in 2001. The Agency aims to increase the availability, capacity and effectiveness of treatment for substance misuse in England.
Roles and responsibilities of doctors in drug treatment (Council Report 131) costs £10.00 and is available from Book Sales, Royal College of Psychiatrists, 17 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8PG. Tel: 020 7235 2351 ext. 146.
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