Table 2 COVID-19 related adaptions in OAT service delivery in 2021 compared to pre-pandemic levels (n = 23 OAT units)

COVID-19 infection control

 Protocol for COVID-19 cases

22

95.7

0

0

 Continued use of COVID-19 safety measures

21

91.3

0

0

 Availability of personal protective equipment (PPE)

21

91.3

0

0

 Reduced face-to-face contact

16

69.6

0

0

 Reduced outpatient treatment capacity

7

30.4

0

0

OAT uptake

 Stable patient demand for OAT

20

87.0

2

8.7

 Faster assessment and initiation of OAT

14

60.9

1

4.3

Medication dispensing

 OAT home delivery: COVID-19 cases only

21

91.3

2

8.7

 OAT home delivery: general

12

52.2

4

17.4

 Take-home doses: longer intervals

12

52.2

2

8.7

 Take-home doses: > 7 days allowed

11

47.8

1

4.3

 Supervised dosing: Continued reduction

11

47.8

2

8.7

 Supervised dosing: Tightened again

10

43.5

2

8.7

Drug screening

 Less drug screens

13

56.5

2

8.7

Telemedicine

 Increased use of telephone consultations

21

91.3

0

0

 Increased use of video consultations

20

87.0

0

0