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BC launching new addiction medicine helpline
Published 12:50 PDT, Tue June 16, 2020
Last Updated: 2:13 PDT, Wed May 12, 2021
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Healthcare providers around BC will be supported by a new 24/7 helpline providing live addiction medicine support.
The 24/7 Addiction Medicine Clinician Support Line was launched today by the BC Centre on Substance Use. The support line is staffed with addiction medicine experts to provide rapid response for time-sensitive clinical substance-use inquiries.
Addiction medicine experts provide telephone consultation to physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and pharmacists who are involved in addiction and substance use care, treatment and recovery in British Columbia. The helpline supports healthcare professionals in keeping their patients away from dangerous, unpredictable street drugs, says Mental Health and Addictions Minister Judy Darcy.
This support is urgently needed at this time due to the dual public health emergencies in response to overdoses and the COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, telephone guidance can be provided to support patients with opioid-use disorder. Clinicians can also consider prescribing safer prescription alternatives to the toxic drug supply.
Clinicians can reach the 24/7 Addiction Medicine Clinician Support Line and speak to an Addiction Medicine Specialist by calling 778-945-7619. For more information, visit the website: www.bccsu.ca/24-7