Whereas an opioid crisis has been identified in British Columbia, and addictions can also take many other forms such as alcohol and other drugs, with addictions being so detrimental to an individuals health and well-being; And whereas there are not enough Drug and Alcohol RehabilitationRecovery Facilities and space available for those who are seeking help to combat addictions: Therefore be it resolved that the Province fund significantly more licensed rehabilitation facilities and beds in every local government to enable all those who seek assistance in recovering from addictions an opportunity to beat addictions.
Ministry of Health The ministries of Health and Mental Health and Addictions are working with all levels of government, community agencies and families to improve mental health and addictions care for everyone with an immediate focus on prevention and early intervention. As part of this work, the ministries of Health and Mental Health and Addictions are reviewing how we offer mental health and substance use supports and services to people, including the number of appropriate treatment beds and support services required to provide quality care for patients. Providing a range of options gives people access to the most appropriate treatment for their specific circumstances, when they need it. Beds represent a small portion of a broad continuum of treatment options available and are typically for people who require high-intensity services and supports to address complex or acute mental health or substance use problems. Evidence shows that community-based treatment results in better outcomes than inpatient treatment and care, and that shorter stays in hospital are as effective as longer stays. The ministries of Health and Mental Health and Addictions are also working to improve the quality of supportive recovery homes, with more oversight and better protections for people who use these services. New regulations to improve the health, safety and quality of care in registered assisted living residences, including supportive recovery homes, came into force on Dec. 1, 2019. Some health authorities such as Fraser Health are also expanding and improving Mental Health and Substance Use Zones of Emergency Departments, which are a designated space within an emergency department offering patients a more calming and therapeutic experience. MHSU Zones are staffed by psychiatric nurses and social workers who can provide patient care in a space within the Emergency Department designed for patient privacy and with comfort in mind. They include a separate entrance from the main emergency department, natural light, confidential assessment rooms, a nourishment centre, and a shower room.