VANCOUVER — Drug users in Vancouver who won't, or can't, attend a residential detox program now have a new, immediate way to kick their habit.
Vancouver Coastal Health has launched START, the Substance use Treatment and Response Team, offering rapid access to at-home detox treatment.
Health authority spokeswoman Mary Marlow says an at-home program meets the needs of those who are trying to hold down a job, have disabilities, are single with children or don't want the stigma of a residential program.
She says applicants must meet certain conditions and have a 24-hour support person available, but if the requirements are met, detox at home can begin very quickly.
Programs run up to two weeks and include daily visits from a nurse over the first five days to stabilize the patient's condition, followed by training during the second week about supports available for continued recovery.
The health authority says research shows withdrawal and detox are more successful if participants can go through it in their own home with supports in place.
"The program is highly responsive," says Marlow in a news release. "We don't want to leave anyone out in the cold. Within two hours of receiving a referral, one of the START nurses will make contact with the client and arrange for an intake assessment."
Health officials say more than 400 people per year are expected to benefit from the program.
