Canada’s Response to the Dual Public Health Crises: A Cautionary Tale

Commentary
by
Krausz, Reinhard M, et al

Release Date

2021

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

Findings/Key points

Need to combine safe supply with counselling and other mental health supports where patients could be seen on a regular basis in a clinic or treatment program. Require safe injection facilities and in the best case a clinic which offers DCM and HDM.

To avoid diversion of drugs from safe supply, professional dispensing is required. Somebody seeing the patient on a regular basis, who has contact with the patient and can initiate additional support in a housing facility, a pharmacy or a clinic is necessary.

Requires the creation of quality treatment programs addressing a broad range of issues re SUD including individual preferences. Case management.

Puzzling why SALOME trial not in effect in Canada.

Immediate access to safe drug supply is critical, but it should be provided in quality treatment programs.

Keywords

Mortality
Safer supply
Decriminalization/legalization
About prescribers
Illegal drugs
Transitions in care/treatment
Diversion