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    Barriers encountered by people with substance use disorder in accessing medication assisted treatment in Dodoma Municipality : A case of Itega Mat Clinic-Dodoma
    (Institute of Social Work (ISW), 2025) Mligo, Venant Christopher
    The aim of this study was to explore the barriers encountered by people with substance use disorders (SUD) in accessing Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) services in Dodoma Municipality by assessing their awareness, examining perceptions influencing treatment-seeking behaviour, and identifying systemic obstacles associated with treatment delivery procedures. Methodologically, the study adopted an interpretivist philosophy and employed a qualitative research approach with an exploratory design. The study was conducted in Dodoma Municipality and targeted individuals with SUD and healthcare providers involved in MAT service delivery. Purposive sampling was used to select eighteen participants (18). This included fifteen (15) people with SUD and three (03) healthcare providers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, while secondary data were drawn from clinic reports, MAT guidelines, and clinical procedure documents. Thematic analysis guided the interpretation of data. The key findings revealed that MAT awareness was generally low and mostly acquired through peers rather than formal education. Misconceptions were widespread, including the belief that methadone substitutes one addiction for another. Procedural barriers such as lengthy registration processes, strict eligibility criteria, and limited-service points discouraged treatment initiation and contributed to high dropout rates, while stigma and mistrust of formal healthcare services further reduced MAT uptake. In conclusion, access to MAT is hindered by informational, attitudinal, and systemic challenges. The study recommends expanding MAT clinics to underserved areas, strengthening community sensitization, simplifying enrolment procedures, and enhancing government-NGO partnerships to improve MAT uptake, retention, and long-term recovery outcomes.