Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) Standards

The MAT Standards in Scotland are a comprehensive set of guidelines that ensure people who use drugs receive high-quality medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This treatment involves using medication, like methadone or buprenorphine, to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping people to reduce their drug use and improve their overall health and well-being.

But the MAT Standards are much more than this. Beyond simply focussing on medication, these standards also emphasise a person-centered approach, focusing on individual needs and goals and rooted in human rights. The MAT Standards promote a supportive, non-judgmental and non-stigmatising environment, recognising that those of us who use drugs may face additional complex challenges such as trauma, poverty, homelessness, or mental health issues. The standards ensure that treatment is accessible, affordable, and delivered in a way that respects individual preferences and cultural backgrounds. They also allow us to better advocate for each other, to ask for what we need and to be part of our own care.

For several years, Simon Community Scotland has been exploring A Digital Approach to Harm Reduction, reflecting on how digital inclusion is an essential part of holistic, relational work. In partnership with Mhor Collective, these insights were brought to the Digital Lifelines Scotland Community of Learning to explore the ways in which we might align the MAT Standards with digital inclusion in practice.

The following examples may offer some helpful, practical suggestions for others working in this space, and reflect the synergy of digital inclusion and the MAT Standards:

• Finding support: The internet is often the first place we check for information on services. Having the basic tools to access and navigate the internet can be an essential first step.

• Reminders: Digital calendars and reminder apps can help people keep track of their appointments and send alerts.

• Maps: using a map app can help people find the service they want to attend and get a sense of where their appointments will be.

• Email communication: the use of email between professionals and copying in the person being supported can amplify their voice in their care.

• Video consultations: Video consultations can remove barriers that some people may have around stigma, geography or caring commitments, improving their access. It can also support a trauma-informed approach for people who may prefer to discuss their care virtually.

• Resources: Digital resources can support a person's journey and alternative pathways available to them. Resources might include With You, By My Side and Crew. Apps, such as Dose, might be used in practice to help individuals keep track of medication, and better understand poly-drug use.

• Prescriptions: Online access to mange prescriptions can give people more autonomy and control over their medication.

• Advocacy: Independent advocacy services can be found and engaged with online, supporting access to wider needs around housing, banking, benefits and employment. Access to many of these services is now digital-first.

• Mental health and wellbeing: There are a range of digital self-management tools that can be used to supplement someone's mental health and wellbeing support e.g. Living Life to the Full, Breathing Space, Calm Harm, Overcoming, and Breathe.

The MAT Standards in Scotland provide a comprehensive framework for delivering meaningful, person-centered medically assisted treatment. By aligning these standards with digital inclusion, we can create a more accessible, supportive, and empowering environment for those of us struggling with substance use. Digital tools can enhance our access to information, and can facilitate connection, community and communication. provide vital support services, ultimately helping to reduce the devastating impact of drug-related harm.