AAC Update – Phase 2 complete

The Vancouver Access and Assessment Centre (AAC) began phase two of its operations on March 28. The program, which is a part of the overall Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) redesign, now has all staff settled into one location with one central phone and fax number set up, and one simplified referral form to access MHSU services for Vancouver adults in need.

Things have been busy as the new team gets to know each other and completes education and training for the new processes integral to the operations of the AAC. The program is currently providing clinical outreach services as well as crisis call and intake referral processing for Vancouver Adult MHSU services. Phase 2 hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. with the crisis line available 24/7.

“After the logistical challenges of moving three programs while maintaining our clinical operations, I am truly impressed with the resilience and flexibility of our clinicians,” says George Scotton, AAC Manager. “In the short time we have been here, we have started to make changes in how we support clients in the community and I look forward to the full implementation of the AAC.”

Tina Babuin, Administrative Manager for the AAC, is also proud of the new administrative team who are onsite seven days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. providing central reception for all AAC program.

“Our admin team has never worked together before now, and they are all doing a fantastic job supporting the clinical staff while getting to know all the new work duties involved.”

As of April 25, the AAC will enter its final phase and open its doors to the public on a 24/7 basis.

You’re Invited!

Prior to opening our doors to the public, we would like to invite all of our VCH staff and physician colleagues to tour the new AAC area, the revamped space for the new Outpatient Psychiatry Team (including SAFER and Community Link Programs), and the newly renovated, centralized offices for ACT and AOT. We hope you’ll join us!

Open House Details: