BC government says PharmaCare program will begin covering drugs for patients with chronic hepatitis C, regardless of the type or severity, beginning in 2018. With quotes from Julio Montaner, director of the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS.

Dr. Paul Martiquet, VCH medical health officer provides an update regarding overdose rates and naloxone kit distribution on the Sunshine Coast.

Dr. Patricia Daly, VCH chief medical health officer discusses overdose crisis, legalization of drugs and shaping policy at city hall.

BC Coroners Service reported a slight decrease last month from a peak in November and December, mentions overdose stats from VCH.

Powell River Mental Health and Addiction Services was a driving force behind bringing PARTY, now in its sixth year, to Powell River to educate youth about driving dangers. With quotes from Rachel Hyrniuk, VCH addiction prevention clinician.

Immigration-enforcement statistics reveal that deportations and other actions remained steady in recent years despite advocates pushing for a softer line on people who enter the country illegally, with mention of VCH not referring people to the CBSA.

Vancouver city councillors approved $450,000 in mental health and addictions supports, including a Drinkers’ Lounge in the DTES, with mention of VCH support.

Planned closure of Shorncliffe and Totem Lodge in 2018 has focused attention on the privatization of care homes, but the writer says it may be just the tip of the iceberg.

Lead physician on Residential Care Committee of Sunshine Coast Division of Family Practice says the new building and 20 new beds via the VCH/Silverstone facility are badly needed.

On March 1, a petition with more than 10,000 signatures will be presented to the Legislature March 1 regarding residential care in Sechelt.