A qualitative exploration of service providers’ perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on addiction services in the Republic of Ireland: Impact of COVID-19 on addiction services in Republic of Ireland

Background/Aims Mental health nurses practicing in drug and alcohol addiction services faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explored service providers’ perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on addiction services in the Republic of Ireland. Methods An anonymous online semi-structured questionnaire was sent to 13 service providers who were selected using convenience sampling. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Service providers reported an increase in caseloads during COVID-19. Three themes were identified from the qualitative data: organisational challenges, new ways of working and changes that sustain. Organisational guidance and support was reported to be lacking, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic. New remote digital ways of working facilitated greater accessibility and flexibility for clients and enabled client resilience. Geographical variations existed regarding the continuation of in-person services vs the introduction of remote digital service provision. Conclusions Drug and alcohol addiction services require appropriate guidance, policy and pre-planning to account for any future pandemics. Greater resources and research are required to secure the sustainability of remote digital models of service provision. Implications for practice Remote and more flexible ways of working adopted by mental health nurses in addiction services have the potential to reach more diverse populations and maintain continuity of care in addiction services. However, in adapting to these new ways of working, individual client preferences must be considered. Organisational structures must evolve to provide the necessary supports for mental health nurses by offering opportunities for training in digital and addiction-specific care, protecting time for professional development, and policy engagement.