Government will increase patient access to supports like addiction counsellors and therapists at opioid dependency clinics. These supports help Albertans develop the skills they need to achieve long-term recovery and lead healthy, successful lives.
“Our government said we would provide more treatment options to more Albertans who need them and that is what we are doing. We are investing in the entire range of addiction treatment and recovery services to provide more Albertans the opportunity to get on the path to health, wellness and long-term recovery.”
There are currently 10 clinics in the province specializing in providing opioid agonist therapy operated by Alberta Health Services (AHS). For more information on care options, visit the opioid response options for care web page on Alberta.ca.
“Enhancing the psychosocial supports at the AHS Opioid Dependency Programs will be paramount to helping people move towards achieving their recovery goals. Pathways to recovery are paramount to addressing the opioid crisis, and reinforcing these programs, tasked with treating opioid addiction, is another huge step in the right direction for all Albertans. Together, we can change everything.”
The government is providing $8 million over the next four years to increase the availability of these important supports.
Budget 2019 includes $140 million over four years to increase access to mental health and addiction treatment, and create an expert advisory council to make recommendations on a new mental health and addictions strategy.