The Punjab Government has made big stride forward in curbing the abuse of drug abuse. Since the Congress led government came to power in Punjab till date more than 83,920 patients suffering from drug addiction have been provided the free treatments at the total 178 OOATS (Outdoor Opioid Assisted Treatment Clinics) clinics. Patients have also been getting free indoor treatment in 34 De- addiction and 19 rehabilitation centers of the state. In this connection the Health Department has decided to observe ‘International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking’ in every district of the state with the active involvement of schools, colleges, NGOs and social welfare organizations. The state level function in this regard would be observed at district Tarn Taran on June, 26.It was disclosed by Mr. Balbir Singh Sidhu, Health & Family Welfare Minister in a press communiqué released here today. The Minister said that the persons who have been provided free treatment in the OOAT clinics and de-addiction centers have been brought back into the mainstream life through regular counseling by the health experts. He said that now with the motive to sensitize the school and college going students about the ill effects of drug addiction, Health & Family Welfare department has issued direction to all the Civil Surgeons to observe International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking in all government schools and colleges in their respective districts on June 26. He said directions to Higher Education and School Education department have already been issued to cooperate with the district health authorities.
Divulging about the working of OOAT clinics the Minister said that, it is an OPD based clinic which is functional seven days a week. The department followed the need based approach that required people only with severe problem to be admitted in the indoor facilities and most of the people can be treated in OPD Facility. The patient is assessed by the Psychiatrist or Medical Officer (who has obtained three months hands on training on de-addiction) initially and then the maintenance phase will be looked after by the medical officer who has received five days OOAT Training.He said that apart from the de-addiction treatment, other services like HIV testing, TB treatment, STI services and ART for PLHIV drug dependants are available providing with the help of PSACS and NHM.He said that more than 100 new patients are being registered on daily basis for the treatment in OOAT clinics through our intensive campaign in the villages and camps organized by the psychiatrist and Medical officers. Moreover through DAPO program, many patients have come forward for treatment in OOAT clinics. He said that registered patients are being monitored continuously by the Psychiatrists through central registry system.