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New detox team working in Mission

Program developed to help those who don’t access traditional services.

Two new home/mobile detox teams are now working in the Fraser Valley area.

Residents of Mission, Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, as well as members of Fraser East First Nations communities and other residents of Fraser East, who need support in withdrawing from substances can now access the new services.

Building on the success of the Riverstone Home/Mobile Detox Program implemented in 2010, the second team, launched last spring, will augment and expand services to include Mission to Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows.

In addition, a third team, fully funded by the First Nations Health Authority, is now operating in First Nations communities throughout Fraser East and also includes the Mission to Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows corridor.

“Detox teams use proven approaches to support people with alcohol or other drug addictions,” said Health Minister Terry Lake. “These new teams are a timely addition to the services available in Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows and Mission and in Fraser East First Nations communities.”

The program was developed to address the needs of individuals who have not traditionally accessed community-based detoxification/withdrawal services and are assessed as suitable for this service.

Since its inception, the first phase of the program has contributed to several encouraging statistics, including a 67 per cent decrease in the number of hospital admissions as clients are able to receive services and supports in the community.

In addition, the program has helped contribute to a 46 per cent decrease in the number of psychiatric emergency room visits as clients are able to receive detox or withdrawal management services in their residence or other supportive environment.

Home/mobile detox consists of a medical assessment by a physician along with regular monitoring by a nurse and health care worker during the withdrawal process to provide medical management and support.

Before discharge from the program, case workers ensure the client and their support network are connected to community programs that continue the recovery process.

Referrals to the program can be made by individuals, family members, physicians, hospital withdrawal management facilities, or other service providers via the toll free number 1-866-795-0600.