ACTIVITIES

The establishment of the Savski Venac centre caused, in effect, a minor revolution at the heart of the Serbian health system. Working within a centre for primary healthcare, the MdM teams were able to establish an innovative approach, in close co-operation with the personnel of the centre, and with the medical and psyco-social services, whilst still being respectful of drug users, who until now have been heavily stigmatised. As well as work carried out to raise awareness among health professionals, a large network of contacts was established to ensure continuity in the care provided outside the centre. The team in Savski Venac has also provided technical support for the creation of new substitution centres, financed by the Global Fund, in 2010.

RESULTS

120 patients benefited from care specific to their needs (with a 95% retention rate), more than 100 patients are enrolled on the waiting list..

OUTLOOK

The management of the Savski Venac centre, today partially autonomous, will be completely transferred to the local authorities at the end of 2011. This last year will therefore be spent preparing for MdM’s withdrawal by organising specialised training and the handover of daily activities.