Low-threshold services for problem drug users in Hungary.

<bold>Objectives: </bold>The main objective of this study was to explore how harm reduction (HR) approach and low-threshold approach are realised at low-threshold services (LTSs) in Hungary in comparison with the guidelines presented in different policy papers (European Union drugs strategies) and national regulations.<bold>Materials and Methods: </bold>Hungarian LTSs were investigated: 29 organisations out of 44 (66% return rate) were reached with questionnaires and 40 LTS workers were interviewed.<bold>Results: </bold>The LTSs have difficulties reaching their target group, distributing sufficient sterile syringes and interpreting the concept of 'low-threshold' and HR, sometimes defining them as a transient stage to abstinence-based treatment.<bold>Conclusion: </bold>The study results suggest that Hungarian LTSs need to be re-orientated toward more emphasis on health-related issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]