Purpose Methadone maintenance patients’ enjoyment of economic, social and cultural rights are understudied. This study aims to explore the objectives of Moroccan methadone patients regarding their enrolment in the program, and their access to housing and professional reintegration as outcomes of their enrolment. Design/methodology/approach The study was a two-month engagement of 300 methadone patients conducted in three addiction community centres in the city of Tangiers. The participants were aged more than 18 years, Arabic-speaking and enrolled in the methadone maintenance program. The data for the study were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. This study instrument is multidimensional, consisting of statements based on self-reports of the surveyed public (Yes/No), binary responses and multiple-choice responses. The evaluation of patient satisfaction on methadone treatment was done using a five-point Likert scale. Findings Patients have well-defined objectives concerning opioid agonist treatment with methadone, and this treatment is perceived as a catalyst for realizing social integration (including rights to adequate housing and work). Although the findings demonstrate no significant correlation between the treatment and professional reintegration, the flexibility of the methadone program and the provision of treatment contribute to facilitating entry into the job market and achieving stability. However, in terms of housing and familial reintegration, the family continues to be a source of both support and stigma. Originality/value The social reintegration outcomes of opioid agonist therapy (OAT) among methadone patients in Morocco are understudied. This research, conducted on the ground in three methadone centres in Tangiers provides a first-hand overview of the positions of patients themselves, describing their social and economic situation and how they perceive the benefits of enrolment in OAT.
Outaleb et al. (Fri,) studied this question.