A 5-year Evaluation Study on Retention Status Among Patients Attending Methadone Replacement Therapy (MRT) In Kuala Selangor District, Malaysia

This retrospective observational cohort study involved patients who received Methadone Replacement Therapy (MRT) in Kuala Selangor from January 2019 to April 2023. It evaluates a 5-year retention rate and factors influencing 1-year retention among 113 MRT patients in Kuala Selangor. Samples were recruited using universal sampling and data were collected using 3 sets of questionnaires; patient’s demographic, Opiate Treatment Index (OTI), and WHO Quality of Life (WHOQOL)-Brief. Results showed a decreasing retention rate over five years (100% to 76.5%). Significant factors included physical health (p=0.009, OR=0.840) and social functioning (p=0.023, OR=0.854). Distance, education, employment, and marital status were found to be not significant. In conclusion, improving patient insights regarding their health conditions and social support are critical for continuity in care.