Detox Wait Times Fall Sharply in B.C. as Innovative Program Expands

A new program in British Columbia is transforming the approach to addiction treatment, significantly reducing wait times for detox beds. The Road to Recovery (R2R) initiative, which began at St. Paul’s Hospital in 2021, now serves as a model for health authorities across the province. By streamlining access to various treatments through a single phone number, the program has facilitated quicker entry into detox for those seeking help with drug and alcohol addiction.

The R2R program offers a centralized service that enables individuals to contact a single number, where trained nurses or doctors triage their needs. This assessment process ensures that patients are assigned to the next available detox bed within the Vancouver Coastal Health system. Those experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms, which can lead to serious health complications, are prioritized for treatment at St. Paul’s Hospital. As a result, the wait for detox beds has decreased from months to mere weeks, with some individuals accessing services on the same day they reach out for help.

Dr. Shona Nolan, co-founder of the R2R program and an addiction physician, expressed her frustration regarding political discourse that suggests treatment options are limited. “It is incredibly frustrating, and it’s actually harmful,” she stated. “It’s harmful to patients when they hear bits of information that is inaccurate or false and deters them from accessing services that may otherwise meet their needs.”

For patients unable to enter detox immediately, the program offers alternatives such as opioid substitutes, including methadone and Suboxone, and access to peer-led support and group programs.

Personal Stories Highlighting the Impact of R2R

The success of the R2R program is illustrated through the experience of individuals like Jamie Ramsey. After years of struggling with alcohol dependency and facing significant health challenges, Ramsey found herself in need of immediate support. In late 2022, she was hospitalized due to severe withdrawal symptoms. Following a recommendation from paramedics, she accessed the R2R intake process.

“The doctors, nurses, and support workers were warm and understanding about my addiction and my precarious living situation,” Ramsey said. She described the relief of having to share her story only once, allowing her to focus on recovery. “All I had to do was show up and say, ‘I need help,’ and everything else that I needed to be done was guided for me,” she added.

While the provincial government is working to increase the availability of detox and treatment beds, challenges remain. The NDP faces criticism as incidents of street disorder and violence prompt public concern. Experts emphasize that treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Dr. Mark Lysyshyn, deputy chief medical health officer for Vancouver Coastal Health, highlighted the complexity of addiction treatment. “Even our best, most evidence-based treatment for addiction doesn’t work for half of people,” he noted.

The private sector offers a variety of treatment options, but concerns have arisen regarding the regulation and effectiveness of these facilities. Many charge substantial fees, raising questions about accessibility and accountability in the addiction treatment landscape.

At St. Paul’s Hospital, participation in the R2R program is entirely voluntary. Dr. Nolan emphasized the importance of recognizing that withdrawal can be an intense emotional and physical journey. “We recognize that experiencing withdrawal for many different reasons can be an intense emotional, physical, spiritual journey,” she explained.

This article is part of a five-part series examining British Columbia’s response to addiction and the factors contributing to the ongoing crisis. The next installment will delve deeper into the implications of these treatment programs and the broader societal impact of addiction.