A outstanding group of medical doctors have come out in assist of Queensland’s transfer to provide capsule testing the inexperienced mild, saying it’s a “huge step forward” and can save lives.
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners backed the state’s resolution to introduce fastened and cell capsule testing websites in Brisbane and at festivals across the state to chemically check illicit medication to examine for the presence of doubtless harmful substances.
RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins stated there was no strategy to cease individuals from taking medication – however there have been methods of lessening the harm.
“It’s a reality that despite the risks and illegality, some people will keep taking illicit drugs,” Dr Higgins stated.
“We should not stick our heads in the sand and pretend otherwise, instead we should minimise the harm.
“Pill testing saves lives, including teenagers and other young people at events such as music festivals, and it’s also a fantastic way of engaging with those who are using drugs.”
The onset of summer time and the music pageant season typically sees tragic tales of drug overdoses and associated deaths hit the headlines.
A 26-year-old man died from a suspected overdose after attending Sydney’s Transmission music pageant on February 11, whereas 12 others have been taken to hospital for remedy associated to drug use.
The new testing websites are part of the state authorities’s Achieving Balance Plan, geared toward decreasing alcohol and drug-related hurt in keeping with Health Minister Yvette D’Ath.
“Pill testing is all about harm minimisation; we don’t want people ending up in our emergency departments or worse losing their life,” Ms D’Ath stated.
“It is important to note that pill testing services do not promote that drugs are safe, however they are among a suite of options that can positively affect outcomes regarding illicit drug use.
“Pill testing services will inform people what chemical substances are in their drugs.”
The transfer was described as a “victory for common sense” by RACGP Vice President Dr Bruce Willett.
“When these sites are up and running, people will not be flying blind, they will have somewhere safe to go free of judgment where they can get information and advice,” he stated.
“This is not about condoning drug use and it does not remove police powers related to illicit drugs, rather it’s about reducing harm.”
Source: www.news.com.au
