Remote residents of the Far West Local Health District are set to benefit from better access to the Magistrates Early Referral into Treatment (MERIT) program thanks to virtual care.
MERIT is a voluntary pre-plea Local Court diversion program that provides access to a range of alcohol and other drug treatment services for 12 weeks while court matters are adjourned. The virtual Program is in the initial implementation stage for people attending Broken Hill, Wilcannia and Wentworth Local Courts.
The virtual care technology adds an important new care option, helping to meet the unique needs of remote and rural communities in Far West NSW by increasing the reach and flexibility of service delivery.
The technology will support these communities with greater access to drug and alcohol treatment programs to ensure individuals receive support tailored to their needs.
MERIT provides access to a wide range of alcohol and other drug treatment services, such as care co-ordination, psychosocial support and individual counselling. It can also assist with referrals to addiction medicine specialists and NSW residential rehabilitation services.
The program has been shown to have positive outcomes for participants. Some of these benefits include decreased drug use and associated harms, decreased offending behaviour, improved health and wellbeing and the possibility of a better sentencing outcome.
In Far West NSW, referrals to the MERIT team can be made by calling the Broken Hill Mental Health Prevention and Rehabilitation Centre on 08 8080 1142 and through several sources, including magistrates, legal representatives, NSW Police, service providers working with the defendant or the defendant themselves.
MERIT is an inter-agency initiative of the Department of Communities and Justice, NSW Health, the Chief Magistrate's Office and NSW Police Force.
The expansion of the MERIT program is part of the NSW Government's response to the Special Commission of Inquiry into the Drug 'Ice'.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Ryan Park:
"Programs like this can be life changing for an individual as it can direct them out of custody and into health programs tailored to their needs, supporting them to get back on track.
"I am pleased people in Far West NSW will have better access to this important program thanks to the innovative virtual care options."
Quotes attributable to Acting Attorney General, Ron Hoenig:
"We know programs like MERIT are helping to tackle substance abuse and reduce reoffending.
"The addition of virtual drug and alcohol treatment options will make it easier for those in regional and remote areas to access this support."
Quotes attributable to Member for Barwon, Roy Butler:
"This virtual care technology means people in Far West NSW now have better access to essential alcohol and other drug treatment services, as part of the MERIT Program.
"Since starting in 2000, MERIT has helped over 27,000 people in NSW, supporting them to improve their health and wellbeing and reduce contact with the criminal justice system. I am pleased the Program is now more accessible to people in Far West NSW as a result of this technology."
