Health status of clients receiving methadone maintenance treatment using the SF-36 health survey questionnaire

This study investigated the health status of a representative sample of clients (35 Maori, 72 non-Maori) receiving methadone maintenance treatment in New Zealand, using the SF-36 health survey. The publication of New Zealand norms in 1999 enabled comparisons of the health of the Methadone Treatment Programme study participants with that of the New Zealand population. Although over 50% of participants rated their health as good, very good or excellent, 44% rated their health as fair or poor and compared with population norms, the health of the study participants was significantly poorer on all eight SF-36 scales. Male and female participants rated their health similarly to male and female clients attending another New Zealand Methadone Treatment Programme. Results highlighted the impact of a chronic disorder and co-existing health-related problems on the health and wellbeing and day-to-day functioning of this client group. Higher frequency of benzodiazepine use was associated with poorer social functioning, mental health and role functioning and higher frequency of cannabis use was associated with poorer role functioning due to emotional problems. Findings support routine monitoring of health status with clients receiving methadone maintenance treatment as a guide to preventative and treatment interventions and health maintenance strategies.