Conference to evaluate the results of “Pilot an intervention model to enhance the social and legal assistance, consultation, and referral services for people who use drugs” in Hanoi from 2021 to 2023

On the morning of December 7, 2023, the Vietnam International Technology Transfer Center (V-ITTC), Hanoi University of Medicine, participated in the conference to evaluate the results of “Pilot an intervention model to enhance the social and legal assistance, consultation, and referral services for people who use drugs” in Hanoi City during the period 2021-2023. The conference was organized by the Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs of Hanoi.

The model, which focuses on managing, caring for, and supporting individuals after drug rehabilitation in residential areas, was implemented across districts and communes in Hanoi. From 2021 to 2023, the model conducted 11 basic and advanced training courses for all personnel involved, including counselors, the B93 Counseling Team with topics covering basic knowledge about drugs, drug addiction, and rehabilitation. The training also included processes and skills for working with drug users and families with drug users.

In addition, Hanoi University of Medicine also conducted 5 capacity-building training courses on social support in drug addiction treatment for over 400 staff members engaged in social crime prevention, management officials, and the implementation of post-rehabilitation management models. This included 7 training sessions to enhance the capacity of over 1,000 social work volunteer team members, and 11 training sessions on addiction treatment and post-rehabilitation management for commune, ward, and town officials.

On the morning of December 7, 2023, Dr. Han Dinh Hoe, a representative of the Vietnam International Technology Transfer Center (V-ITTC), shared the initial results of the evaluation of the “Feasibility and Acceptance of the intervention model to enhance the social and legal assistance, consultation, and referral services for people who use drugs” combined with Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Case Management (CM) online” implemented in 06 communes and wards in Hoan Kiem District, Cau Giay District, and Thanh Tri District. The results after three months of pilot implementation showed an increase in the utilization of healthcare and social services locally, along with a significant decrease in the concentration of people undergoing rehabilitation at the facility.

• The Support Model combined with Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Case Management (CM) online fostered a reliable, caring, and respectful relationship between Community Social Workers (CBW) and People who use drugs (PWUD).
• Information provided within the group was helpful, aiding PWUD in accessing and utilizing local services.
• Significant improvements in confidence were noted, leading to reduced substance use and enhanced recovery resources for clients, a condition conducive to reducing and discontinuing drug use.

The report also provided recommendations for scaling this model to other districts and communes in Hanoi, including:

• Extending the intervention period with information tailored to various needs of PWUD. Developing Zalo message services to meet customer needs.
• Implementing multiple CM channels suitable for customer conditions, whether group or individual, online, or in-person.
• Providing more extensive training on knowledge and skills for the CBW team.
• Developing a more specific support strategy for PWUD to truly meet their needs.

Based on this pilot program, the Hanoi Department for Social Vices Prevention will continue research to expand the model to other districts and communes in Hanoi in the coming years.