This study aims to identify the health and social care needs of people with dual diagnosis and to identify the services provided to those with dual diagnosis across the addiction and mental health services in Ireland. The research was carried out in three distinct phases. Firstly a literature review identified the needs of people with dual diagnosis and examined best practice in treatment and service management. Secondly, and open forum, comprising of people and agencies involved in the care of people with dual diagnosis, was convened to consider the findings of the literature review in the light of their experience of dual diagnosis. Thirdly, a national survey was developed to review how mental health and addiction services manage dual diagnosis.

The study found that there was no systematic co-ordination of care evident in any health board area, with 76% of services failing to offer a specific service for people with dual diagnosis. 75% of survey respondents support a fully integrated service as the most effective.