[Low-threshold primary care for patients in opiate maintenance therapy. A pilot project in Malmö, Sweden, integrates primary care and OMT].

: Low-threshold primary care for patients in opiate maintenance therapy. A pilot project in Malmo, Sweden, integrates primary care and OMT  This report illustrates how integration of primary care and opiate maintenance therapy (OMT) may improve OMT patients health and minimize obstacles for care seeking. OMT patients have poor health. Around 80 % have hepatitis C, a majority smoke tobacco, and socio-economic status is generally low. However, somatic health is often under-prioritized in this group. To improve OMT patients physical health', two OMT clinics and one primary care center in Malmo, Sweden, started a pilot project in 2014. This project includes: OMT personnel suggest their patients to see a primary care physician and assist with booking; Primary care physicians interested in and/or experienced from addiction care; Closer contact between primary care and OMT, regarding initiated medication, recommended follow-up, referrals, etc. Patients and care givers stress the importance of easily accessible care for this vulnerable patient group. To scientifically evaluate such projects, controlled studies are necessary.