Opioid replacement (ORT)

For people who are dependent on opiates (e.g. heroin, oxycodone and morphine) we offer ORT.  In ORT, methadone and buprenorphine are prescribed to replace the opioid substance/s. ORT is highly regulated and clients receiving this treatment will be registered with Medicines, Regulation and Quality (MRQ) in Queensland Health.

Acceptance into ORT requires thorough assessment by medical staff and certain conditions apply.

Stages

Opioid treatment has two stages:

1. Opioid stabilisation
   Determining the most suitable dose requires regular and close monitoring by medical and nursing staff. As such, anyone commencing ORT or re-stabilising in treatment will need to attend the Biala City Community Health Centre until their dose is stable.

2. Opioid maintenance
   For many people, ORT becomes long term treatment which requires case management. Opioid maintenance provides a person with a team of health professionals who will work with them to support dosing at specified local pharmacies, as well as refer for counselling and other therapies if required.