Arrested opioid addicts can now be treated by police right in municipal jails..Being administered through this program is a new medication called Sublocade that has not been widely accessible in Alberta previously..The voluntary service is available to Albertans who have been arrested for any offence starting immediately, with some treatment initiations having already taken place..This program move is part of the province’s.Virtual Opioid Dependency Program get get easier access for treatment for addicts..VODP will implement addiction treatment in municipal jails starting with the Edmonton Police Service, the Calgary Police Service, and some rural locations with the RCMP..The new division will create quick assessment and treatment initiations for those struggling with addiction and opioid use, while also looking at long term provide enhanced case management for clients after their release from custody..“The Calgary Police Service supports collaborative solutions that help tackle the addiction crisis. Enforcement alone isn’t enough. Our officers look forward to partnering with VODP to ensure that all of our detainees have access to these life-saving medications,” said CPS Chief Mark Neufeld..Neufeld noted police officers are usually the first when it comes to dealing with an addict..“Alberta’s Virtual Opioid Dependency Program is a world-class program that was developed right here in Alberta. Alberta’s government is proud to support the expansion of this program,” said Mike Ellis, associate minister of Mental Health and Addictions..“Recovery-oriented care is about providing options to Albertans with addiction and this option will save lives and support recovery.”.Alberta’s government is providing $1.4 million to expand the VOPD in this initiative, making total provincial funding for the program is $6.4 million annually..Separately from other funding, the provincial government is also covering the costs of the new treatment, Sublocade, that will be used in the program..Sublocade is a monthly injection, while the majority of other opioid therapy medications must be taken daily. .Dr. Monty Ghosh, of the Alberta Medical Association, explained Sublocade is expensive and difficult to access, but can be beneficial to treatment service in Alberta..“This will increase treatment options for individuals with opioid addiction. Addiction medicine physicians across Alberta will be grateful to have another tool to treat opioid addiction, especially for our various vulnerable clients who previously could not afford this life-saving medication.” said Ghosh.
