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In a bid to improve treatment accessibility for drug addiction, the Punjab government is considering allowing patients registered at outpatient opioid-assisted treatment (OOAT) clinics to procure their medicines from private centres.
The move seeks to simplify access to Buprenorphine, a key detoxification medicine, which is currently available at 529 government-run OOAT clinics across the state. These clinics cater to nearly 10 lakh registered patients. In addition, Punjab has around 180 private centres offering similar treatment services.
The initiative was discussed in a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary, with participation from officials across the police, health, home, and education departments. One of the main proposals under review includes enabling OOAT clinic patients to receive medicines from private centres and medical stores through Aadhaar-enabled smart cards.
The Punjab government is adopting a multifaceted approach to tackling drug addiction. Along with exploring private medicine dispensing options, authorities aim to enhance counselling services, improve data analysis, and ensure stricter enforcement against illegal drug activities.
Officials believe that expanding medicine availability to private centres will make treatment more accessible and effective while maintaining stringent monitoring mechanisms. The proposed changes are expected to provide relief to patients who may find it difficult to visit government OOAT clinics regularly.
As the state continues its fight against drug addiction, the new measures underline Punjab’s commitment to a more inclusive and efficient rehabilitation framework. Further decisions on implementation are expected in the coming weeks.