Virtual Addiction Medicine reduces barriers to accessing care

Earlier this year, the VAM team made it even easier to access addiction medical care by launching a simple form on the Interior Health (IH) website. Anyone can fill in the form from a computer or smartphone, or have someone like a friend, family member or health-care provider fill it in for them.

With this change, people no longer need a referral from a health-care provider, and can contact IH directly to gain faster access to these important services.

“The benefit of this form is there’s no need to travel, and there’s no need to walk in and wait at a clinic,” says Daniel Grigat, project lead, Substance Use Strategy at IH. “For those living in rural and remote areas especially, the form removes the barriers of long-distance travel or access to transportation.”

Daniel also underscores that the form is discreet. “You can request an appointment from wherever you are,” he adds. “Stigma about substance use can be a barrier to getting help, and many people may not want their neighbours see them walking into a substance use clinic.”

After the form is submitted, someone from the VAM Clinic contacts the client within one business day. The service is fast and confidential.

Since its launch this year, more than 100 people have filled in the self-referral form to request an appointment. Many are from small communities without a local Mental Health and Substance Use centre.

For those struggling to stop using or reduce their alcohol intake, safe and effective medicines are available to reduce cravings. For those who have stopped drinking, they can help prevent relapse. Many medications prescribed for alcohol use disorder are covered. (Stopping alcohol suddenly without medical support can be dangerous. A VAM specialist can develop a safe care plan for you.) 

For people who have an opioid use disorder—T3s, morphine, hydromorphone (“dillies”), oxycodone (Percocet®, Oxyneo®), heroin or fentanyl (“down”)—an OAT prescription can help. OAT medications are free in B.C.

“Substance use disorder is a medical condition that can happen to anyone," says Daniel. “And if you have a history of traumatic experiences, you’re at greater risk. It’s not your fault. There is no shame, and help is available.”

If you’re experiencing feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of self-harm, you can call one of these numbers. These services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays:

• Interior Crisis Line Network - 1-888-353-2273
• Suicide Crisis Helpline - 988
• KUU-US (Indigenous) Crisis Line - 1-800-588-8717
• Métis Crisis Line - 1-833-638-4722

Long-term help

Once a VAM clinician has completed an assessment with you, come up with a care plan that meets your needs, and initiated treatment, they connect you to long-term care in your community.

Care in your community can include substance use counselling, harm reduction services like supervised consumption and drug checking, and help with any mental health concern you may have. Contact your nearest Interior Health Mental Health and Substance Use centre at 310-MHSU (6478) for more information on care in your community.

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