A qualitative exploration of patients' experience of mobile telephone‐delivered contingency management to promote adherence to supervised methadone

Getty, Carol‐Ann ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4151-7797, Weaver, Tim ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3437-3556 and Metrebian, Nicola (2023) A qualitative exploration of patients' experience of mobile telephone‐delivered contingency management to promote adherence to supervised methadone. Drug and Alcohol Review, 42 (3) . pp. 641-651. ISSN 0959-5236 [Article] (doi:10.1111/dar.13555)

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Abstract

Introduction

Despite an increasing evidence base for mobile telephone-delivered contingency management (mCM), there had been no previous qualitative exploration of patients' experience of receiving mCM and the factors that might influence that experience and outcome in a UK setting. The aim of this study was to understand patients' views and experience of receiving mCM by exploring their beliefs, expectations and perceived benefits within the context of the UK's first mCM intervention.

Methods

Qualitative interviews (N = 15) were conducted with patients undergoing opioid agonist treatment in a UK drug treatment service and receiving mCM to encourage adherence with supervised methadone as part of an existing study. Interviews were conducted at two time points and analysed using Framework to explore patients' expectations and beliefs during the early stage of the intervention (2 weeks) and their perceived benefits and experience at the end of the intervention (12 weeks).

Results

The mCM was perceived as a motivator, providing validation of achievement, and involving discreet and positive interactions. Perceived benefits included enhanced methadone adherence, reduced drug use and the development of a supportive and non-judgemental connection that resembled a therapeutic alliance.

Discussion and Conclusions

The mechanisms underpinning contingency management appeared to operate in the absence of human interaction, and the mCM intervention was deemed to be meaningful, acceptable and well received by patients. These findings not only provide support for the application of mCM in this context but also offer insight into the factors that influence outcomes and should be considered in the development of future mCM interventions.

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