Overdose crisis: easier access to Suboxone

We know that many of our staff and physicians across Vancouver are responding to the overdose crisis. We’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your tireless hours, creative solutions, and genuine commitment to and concern for the health and safety of our clients.

A virtual EOC (Emergency Operations Centre) is in operation with VCH and PHC and external partners to obtain information and provide a more coordinated response. More resources are currently under development and new initiatives will continue to be announced.

One resource already available for your clients wishing to get on treatment is Suboxone. Physicians no longer require an exemption to prescribe Suboxone (although a short online course must be completed). Family Practitioners can also be provided support for clients starting the process of Suboxone treatment through the VCH START program.  The START program provides first line treatment options to individuals requiring help to withdraw from or stabilize their substance use, and who are able to do so safely with support in the community.

If you require personal support in light of workload and the overdose crisis, please reach out to your manager and/or the Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) for confidential, voluntary, short-term counselling http://www.efap.ca/