Hospital-based services

Alcohol and other drug support in Victorian emergency departments

Since 2012–13, dedicated funding has been provided to 27 participating emergency departments across Victoria to strengthen responses to AOD-related presentations.

Funding typically supports a specialist AOD clinician, with flexibility for health services to tailor the model to local needs.

Clinicians work alongside emergency department teams to improve the identification, assessment and management of AOD related presentations, strengthen referral pathways, build workforce capability, and support people with co-occurring mental health needs.

The model promotes stronger links between emergency departments and community-based AOD services to support ongoing treatment and care.

A statewide community of practice supports participating health services to collaborate, share knowledge and continuously improve care.

Hospital-based withdrawal services

Withdrawing from AOD can cause acute symptoms that range from mild to severe. Symptoms vary depending on the type of drug used, length of dependence, the individual’s physical and psychological wellbeing and the method of withdrawal chosen.

If severe medical or mental health issues co-occur with the client's AOD use, or if complex medical withdrawal is anticipated, hospital inpatient withdrawal may be required. Hospital-based withdrawal is generally considered appropriate for those with a confirmed or suspected history of delirium tremens, seizures, severe medical or psychiatric co-morbidities or a high suicide risk.

In a hospital-based withdrawal setting, a client will receive medical support and supervision 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, along with intensive psychiatric support, as required.