Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) standards: access, choice, support
Evidence-based standards to enable the consistent delivery of safe, accessible, high-quality drug treatment across Scotland.
In 2021 1,330 people lost their lives to a drug-related death. Drug related deaths (DRDs) have increased in Scotland for eight out of the last nine years with a 250% increase in annual deaths since 2013.
The MAT standards define national standards for the consistent delivery of ‘no barrier’ medically assisted treatment in Scotland and are a guide to quality improvement in all aspects of the recovery-orientated system of care.
The purpose of the MAT standards is to reduce harm, prevent death and support recovery among people experiencing problematic drug use.
Summary of the MAT Standards
- People have the option to start MAT from the same day of presentation.
- People are supported to make an informed choice on what medication to use for MAT and the most appropriate therapeutic dose.
- People (in or out of drug treatment) at high risk of drug-related harm are identified, prioritised, contacted and offered support to commence or continue MAT or other treatment.
- People can access evidence-based harm reduction at the point of MAT delivery.
- People receive support to remain in treatment for as long as needed.
- The system that provides MAT is psychologically-informed and underpinned by Core Behavioural and CBT Skills for Relapse Prevention and Recovery.
- People have the option of MAT shared with Primary Care.
- People have access to advocacy and support for housing, welfare and income needs from presentation to services.
- People with a dual diagnosis can receive mental health care at the point of MAT delivery.
- People receive trauma informed care.