New Opioid Dependency Program opens in High Prairie

HIGH PRAIRIE – High Prairie and area residents have increased access to opioid replacement therapy.

A new Alberta Health Services (AHS) opioid dependency program is now open at the High Prairie Community Health and Wellness Clinic, within the new High Prairie Health Complex.

“The opioid crisis is affecting families, communities and neighbourhoods across Alberta,” says Health Minister Sarah Hoffman. “Making sure residents from High Prairie and surrounding communities can receive treatment closer to home is key to saving lives and helping individuals on the path to recovery and stability.”

The program began accepting patients today, June 4, and has the capacity to assist up to approximately 150 patients.

“Opioid misuse is a serious concern in Alberta,” says President and CEO of AHS Dr. Verna Yiu. “Like our partners in government and in the private sector, we continue to work to provide treatment for those addicted to fentanyl and other opioids, while focusing efforts on understanding and addressing the root causes of the issue.”

The program was established following Alberta Health’s commitment to provide $3 million over three years to Opioid Dependency Treatment expansion, increasing access to treatment services and counselling across the province.

“Together, with social supports and counselling, this program will help address substance use,” says Dr. Brian Muir, Deputy Zone Medical Director of the AHS North Zone. “It is current best practice to treat the opioid (fentanyl) crisis with opioid maintenance therapy as well as with supports from family, friends and various other health care professionals. This program is a welcomed addition to the addiction and mental health services currently offered.”

A list of opioid dependency programs available across the province can be found on the College of Physicians and Surgeons website.

Physicians may refer their patients to the new High Prairie program, or patients may also self-refer by phoning the clinic directly at 780-536-2136.

For more information about the new Opioid Dependency Program in High Prairie and other available addiction services, visit ahs.ca/services/odp.aspx.

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