Addiction medicine treatment options in Saskatchewan are expanding with the launch of a new Virtual Access to Addiction Medicine program in three communities, including Lloydminster.
The program is also launching in Nipawin and Cumberland House – Cree Nation and Northern Village, making it the first initiative of its kind in the province.
The Virtual Access to Addiction Medicine program allows residents to receive intake, assessment, and treatment through videoconferencing or telephone while working alongside existing local supports.
“Our government is committed to providing more support for people struggling with addiction,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said.
“This virtual program is a new and innovative way to offer Saskatchewan residents timely, life-saving addiction treatment, especially for people living in rural and remote communities.”
Treatment will be delivered in collaboration with local services in Lloydminster, such as laboratories for urine drug screening, outpatient mental health and addiction services for counselling, and pharmacists for medication administration. The program aims to reduce substance use and dependence, prevent overdoses, and save lives.
Substance use addressed through the program includes opioids, stimulants, alcohol, and benzodiazepines.
“This is another step toward fulfilling the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s commitment to expand access to addiction treatment and supports for Saskatchewan residents,” said Zoe Teed McKay, executive director of mental health and addictions provincial services with the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
“Having the option to access addiction treatment virtually will provide more opportunities for individuals, regardless of where they live, to receive the treatment they need and help them on the road to recovery.”
Residents aged 18 and older in Lloydminster, Nipawin, and Cumberland House – Cree Nation and Northern Village can self-refer or be referred to the program by a care provider.
Services are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week. Additional details are available through the Saskatchewan Health Authority website.
The province says the program is expected to expand to additional communities in the coming months, with updates to be posted online as the rollout continues.
Read more: Lloydminster has fifth-highest overdose deaths since 2020 in Sask.
