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ShareVIHA writes cheque for detox services
By Rebecca Aldous - Victoria News
Published: November 05, 2008 5:00 PM
Updated: November 05, 2008 6:01 PM
Greater Victoria’s detox program has $240,000 more to help run its service.
The extra funding for the six-week outpatient program is part of a commitment made by the Vancouver Island Health Authority last fall to enhance detox services in the region.
“The expansion of outpatient detox services recognizes everyone’s recovery needs are different, and that a variety of recovery and treatment models are required to meet the needs of individuals who are struggling to recover from addictions,” said VIHA board chair Jac Kreut.
The intensive program is aimed at clients new to recovery or unable to attend a more structured program.
Clients participate in daily educational and support sessions plus individual counselling.
Psychiatric assessments are also available on a limited basis.
Rev. Al Tysick, executive director of transitional housing facility Our Place, hopes the outpatient detox boost will free up longer-term beds at other facilities around the region.
“Any additional money for detox is money well spent,” he added.
The outpatient program can be accessed through referrals from a family physician, counsellor or directly by individuals.
VIHA dedicated $7.6 million to supporting the care of people with mental health and addictions under the Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness.
For more information on detox services, please visit www.viha.ca/mhas/services.
raldous@vicnews.com
