Drug dependence treatment is only possible with the consent of the patient. And only in this case one can count on effective and long-lasting results. But sometimes a patient cannot consent to therapy for a number of reasons. Is it possible to help them without their knowledge?
Compulsory drug treatment can be used in certain legal and medical situations when a person poses a threat to themselves or others and cannot make the decision to seek treatment on their own. However, compulsory treatment is a complex and countervailing practice. It requires professionals to have not only the appropriate knowledge but also clinical experience in providing such therapy. Compulsory drug treatment is possible only under certain conditions and its application to any patient is prohibited by the legislation of Ukraine.
When compulsory drug treatment can be used and its results
In what cases can drug addiction treatment be carried out without the patient’s consent? These situations are strictly defined by the Law:
- When a person is unable to make treatment decisions due to severe addiction, inability to cope with behavioural problems and health complications.
- When the existence of free choice may pose a threat to human life or health.
- When there is a legal framework that allows for compulsory treatment.
Compulsory treatment can lead to temporary withdrawal from the substance and elimination of physical dependence, but it does not guarantee full recovery and prevention of relapses. For full treatment, it is necessary to obtain the patient’s consent and start comprehensive therapy, including not only emergency assistance to the addict, but also the work of psychotherapists, psychologists, rehabilitation therapists, and social workers.
It is important to understand that long-term results may be limited if the individual is not willing to co-operate and actively participate in the treatment process.
Forced Drug Addiction Treatment Prices (Cost)
| Emergency narcological assistance call | from 3000 UAH |
| Forced drug addiction treatment (hospitalization) | from 3000 UAH |
| Psychological intervention | from 3000 UAH |
| Inpatient drug addiction treatment | from 2700 UAH |
| Rehabilitation (comprehensive drug addiction treatment) | from 27000 UAH per month |
Methods of compulsory drug treatment
How is compulsory treatment for drug addiction carried out? In most cases, it is confinement to specialised institutions. Persons under compulsory treatment can be sent to specialised centres for rehabilitation and addiction treatment, where medical and psychological assistance is provided. The GarMed Clinic treats patients without consent if there are good reasons for such a procedure.
One of the key therapies is medication-assisted therapy, such as the administration of medications to relieve withdrawal symptoms and suppress the desire to use. They can be used in compulsory treatment to relieve withdrawal symptoms and put the patient in a state where they are able to make a decision about further treatment.
A variety of psychotherapeutic techniques, including cognitive behavioural therapy, group and individual sessions, may also be used as part of compulsory treatment.
It is important to note that compulsory drug treatment should only be carried out within the legal framework and in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of the patient. It should not violate human rights and freedoms. Non-consensual drug treatment should be a last resort and should only be used when there is a risk to the patient or others.
What to do if there is a drug addict among close people who is unable to make a decision about the need for treatment? First of all, relatives should contact a drug addict and get advice on further actions. As a rule, the work of the centre’s psychologists helps patients to understand the problem and decide to get rid of it.
