Development and upgrade of mobile units for the implementation of preventive programmes and harm reduction programmes in the field of illicit drugs

Network of mobile units was upgraded by replacing vehicles, enhancing the staffing of mobile units (including health care workers, nurses, and a chemist) and developing new services and programmes in mobile units. Conditions were established for better collaboration and a greater coherence among social and healthcare services that treat users within the programme.

In the 6 low-threshold programs, due to health personnel inclusion in already existing social care teams, the service users have been now receiving comprehensive psychosocial and medical treatment. In the mobile laboratory, testing of (new) psychoactive substances to prevent health and other risks related to drug-use in night life, has been successfully implemented. The service is operating on daily basis with the possibility of bringing the drug for testing to several info-points across Slovenia. Additionally, the field team has been present at major dance events where the drug-testing service is done immediately.

The key result of both treatment programs are stable users with more opportunities to enter the labour market and a higher quality of life. The health and social rehabilitation program for users who have successfully completed drug treatment programs is reaping great success in promoting the resocialization and employment reintegration of former users and preventing the risk of slipping back into addiction.

The exceptional importance and usefulness of out-reach programs has significantly contributed to the prevention of deaths, health deterioration, relapses and social exclusion in users, and prevention of spreading of viral diseases (COVID-19, HIV, hepatitis).