Chen, SEPTEMBER 2 (MExN): The Satellite Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) center, under the National AIDS Control Programme, was officially launched at Chen Primary Health Centre (PHC) in a ceremony held today. The initiative aims to address drug addiction in the region by providing a controlled and monitored environment for individuals seeking treatment.
Dr. Supongmenla Walling, Chief Medical Officer of Mon, expressed gratitude to those in attendance and highlighted the significance of the new facility. She explained that the government has implemented two strategies to combat addiction: the OST center and an Addiction Treatment Center in Mon. The OST center will engage addicted individuals in social activities, fostering their reintegration into the community as responsible citizens. The treatment involves the daily oral consumption of a free legal substance, administered under the supervision of a nurse, to gradually free individuals from psychological dependence.
Dr. Walling also addressed the current shortage of manpower at the facility, noting that the issue has been communicated to the Health and Family Welfare Department in Kohima and is expected to be resolved soon. She emphasized that while the department has launched the OST center, its success depends on community support. She urged the community to take care of the staff and the center to ensure its sustained operation.
Nchumthung Ezung, SDO of Chen, stressed the importance of community involvement, stating that government efforts alone are insufficient for the success of such programs. He encouraged civil society groups to actively resist drug dealers and raise awareness about the services offered at the newly launched OST center.
Longyim, DPO DAPCU, provided a brief overview of the process behind establishing the OST center in Chen Town, while Dr. Nokyat Y, Medical Officer in charge of the OST center at DH Mon, discussed the technical aspects and benefits of OST.
The program also featured speeches from Yayem, President of KU Chen unit, and Lockpa, Vice-President of CASU. Mr. Pangpat, an outreach worker with Targeted Intervention-Network of Naga People Living with HIV/AIDS (TI NNP+ Aboi), chaired the event, and Chingtok, Chairman of HCMC PHC Chen, delivered the vote of thanks. The event concluded with a benediction and dedication prayer by T. Pulei, Pastor of CTBC.
Following the launch, an induction camp was organized, during which 38 new clients were counseled and assessed by Senior Medical Officers from Aboi, Dr. Nungshikokba Imchen and Dr. Nokyat.
