Health Minister Sarah Hoffman says helping people access treatment closer to home could save lives. That’s after a new opioid dependency program launched in High Prairie.
AHS says the program will operate out of the High Prairie Community Health and Wellness Clinic. They started accepting patients Monday and can treat about 150 people. Deputy Zone Medical Director Dr. Brian Muir says this is part of a harm reduction strategy.
“It is current best practice to treat the opioid (fentanyl) crisis with opioid maintenance therapy as well as with supports from family, friends and various other health care professionals. This program is a welcomed addition to the addiction and mental health services currently offered.”
Muir says support systems and counselling are also an important part of the work to address substance abuse.
No referral is needed to access the program.