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Working with drug users

Dr Rupert Backhouse

Rupert is a GP who works in Mandurah. He has looked after drug users for over 20 years, and believes that it is important to “treat the individual and not the drug”. Rupert finds his work rewarding as it enables this marginalised population to access health care. Drug use can be a chronic, relapsing and remitting problem, and can benefit from many people being involved in providing care.

Dr Sharon Vasey

Sharon is a GP who works in the northern suburbs of Perth. She feels that it is part of the GP’s role to look after drug users and address this need in the community. It is important to help people "restore lives". Some drug users have multiple problems, which will need a multi-factorial approach to help them.

About this resource

Professor Moira Sim interviews two GPs who look after drug users. Moira asks Rupert and Sharon to reflect on their experiences in treating drug users.

Watch the interview and consider:

  • Whether these GPs' experiences mirror your own?
  • How you feel about treating drug users?
  • How you manage challenging and difficult behaviours?
  • What skills could you improve to help you look after drug users?
  • What resources exist in your area to help you look after drug users?

Working with drug users

WA Primary Health AlliancePrimary Health Network: Perth North, Perth South, Country WA

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