Safer supply drug users will have to go to pharmacies multiple times a day under new B.C. model

B.C. Makes changes to Safer Supply program Amidst Drug Crisis

B.C.’s Health Minister, Josie Osborne, has introduced changes to the province’s prescription opioid program, a move that has sparked debate and concern. the shift comes in the wake of a leaked Ministry of Health document revealing significant diversion of prescription opioids intended for safer supply distribution.

The changes, announced on Wednesday, mandate that individuals relying on prescription opioids for safer supply must now take their doses under the supervision of a pharmacist or healthcare provider. Previously, patients coudl access these medications for regular use at home.

Á’a:líya Warbus, B.C.Conservative Opposition House leader, raised concerns during a recent question period, highlighting the devastating impact of the toxic drug crisis on her family. She lost four loved ones to the crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for effective solutions.

“All drugs are lethal in the hands of vulnerable people who need solutions now,” Warbus stated.

The safer supply program, launched in 2020, aimed to mitigate the risk of fatal overdoses by providing regulated opioids to individuals struggling with addiction. Though, leaked Ministry of Health slides revealed that a substantial amount of these prescription opioids were being diverted from their intended users and sold on the black market.

Dr. Mark tyndall,a professor at the UBC School of Population and Public Health,voiced his opposition to the witnessed model,arguing that it effectively dismantles the safer supply program. “compared to the people dying of these toxic drug overdoses, diversion to me is a very small problem,” Tyndall stated.

Osborne maintains that the safer supply program remains crucial for stabilizing individuals and connecting them to treatment and recovery.

“The safer supply program, there is ample evidence that is showing how it works, how it is stabilizing people; it is connecting them to treatment and recovery,” Osborne said.

However, the new measures raise concerns for individuals reliant on hydromorphone for safer supply. Lorna Bird, a resident of the Downtown Eastside, expressed confusion and concern about the logistical challenges of taking hourly doses under supervision. “I don’t even understand how that’s going to work,” Bird said.

warbus criticizes the government’s strategy, arguing that it perpetuates a cycle of addiction instead of providing robust addiction treatment options.

The opioid crisis continues to ravage B.C., with over 16,328 deaths as a public health emergency was declared in April 2016.

along with the changes to the safer supply program, Osborne announced an investigation into 60 pharmacies allegedly engaging in unethical practices to increase prescription volume.

This investigation comes after leaked Ministry of Health documents revealed widespread concerns about prescription opioid diversion. The documents indicated that government and law enforcement agencies were aware of the trafficking of prescription opioids both nationally and internationally.

What are Dr. Patel’s thoughts on the effectiveness of B.C.’s safer supply program thus far?

Interview with Dr. Ava Patel, Harm Reduction Specialist: Navigating B.C.’s Evolving Safer Supply Program

Archyde News recently sat down with Dr. Ava Patel, a renowned harm reduction specialist, to discuss the recent changes to British Columbia’s safer supply program and the ongoing drug crisis.

Archyde News (AN): Dr. Patel, thank you for joining us today. Let’s dive right in.B.C. has been grappling with the drug crisis, with over 16,000 deaths since the public health emergency was declared in 2016.How did the safer supply program come into play, and has it been effective so far?

Dr. Ava Patel (AP): Thank you for having me. The safer supply program was introduced to mitigate the risk of fatal overdoses by providing a regulated source of opioids to individuals struggling with addiction,okanagan hcg injections rather than them relying on the toxic street supply. It was a pivotal step with promising early results, with some participants stabilizing and connecting to treatment.

AN: We’ve seen changes recently, with the program mandating supervised consumption at pharmacies. how will this affect those relying on safer supply?

AP: This shift is indeed challenging. supervised consumption at pharmacies can provide a safer environment for consuming drugs, but it may also create logistical hurdles, especially for those taking multiple hourly doses.We must ensure these changes don’t act as barriers to accessing this life-saving service.

AN: Lorna Bird, a Downtown Eastside resident, expressed concerns about the practicality of this change. How can we address these challenges?

AP: Input from people with lived experience, like Lorna, is crucial.We need to ensure they are at the forefront of policy decisions. More community engagement, choice supervised consumption sites, and flexible scheduling could help navigate these challenges. Every individual’s situation is unique, so tailored solutions are key.

AN: diversion of prescription opioids has been a significant issue. How can we tackle this while ensuring safer supply remains accessible?

AP: addressing diversion is complex. We need robust monitoring systems,like tamper-proof packaging and pharmacist-logged doses,to reduce theft and reselling. At the same time, we must avoid criminalizing drug users, as this can hinder access to safer supply and treatment. It’s a delicate balance we need to strike.

AN: looking ahead, what’s one key change you’d like to see in B.C.’s approach to the drug crisis?

AP: I’d like to see a more thorough, compassionate approach that acknowledges drug use as a public health issue, not a criminal one. This means more investment in harm reduction,treatment,and social support. We must also address the root causes of addiction,such as poverty,trauma,and lack of housing.Only a multi-faceted approach can make a meaningful difference.

AN: Thank you for your insightful viewpoint, Dr. Patel. How can our readers get involved and support harm reduction efforts in British Columbia?

AP: They can volunteer at local harm reduction services, advocate for policy changes, or donate to non-profits working on these issues. Everyvoice matters in shaping a more compassionate, effective response to our drug crisis. Together, we can make a difference.

Dr. Ava Patel is a harm reduction specialist with over a decade of experience in B.C.’s drug crisis. She serves on the boards of several non-profits and is a frequent speaker on drug policy reform.