Partnership improves access to addictions treatment in NW
A partnership between Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre (BRT6HC) and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is a model of success for inclusive, stigma-free addictions treatment in the northwest.
The Ahkahmeyimowin Rapid Access to Addictions Medicine (RAAM) Clinic in North Battleford, jointly funded, managed, and governed by BRT6HC and the SHA, is delivering life-changing services to individuals from Meadow Lake to Lloydminster and surrounding Indigenous communities.
“Many factors lead people down the path of addictions. They access our services for different reasons and at different stages,” said Jennifer Marcoux, registered nurse (RN), community mental health nurse, RAAM clinic. “Just because people use substances doesn’t mean they aren’t good people.”
Previously, a lack of integrated services and providers trained in or comfortable with providing addictions medicine, coupled with transportation barriers and mistrust of the health-care system meant clients were often unable or chose not to access addictions services. Integration of the Seven Grandfather Teachings and the strong relationship BRT6HC has with Indigenous Elders across the northwest has been key to building client relationships that are trusting, respectful, culturally safe and free of judgement.
The RAAM Clinic in North Battleford provides opportunities for clients to access support for addictions counselling and outpatient treatment. It also provides a variety of primary health care services in a safe space to warm-up, use the washroom, and get basic hygiene supplies, a snack, clothing, or a hot meal, make a call, or answer email. Battle River Treaty 6 Health Centre (BRT6HC) and SHA clinic staff ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all clients. Staff members include (back row, left to right) Dr. Kelsey Lazar; Cymric Leask, BRT6HC human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) project coordinator/outreach; Nicole Berg, BRT6 community case manager; Lisa Whitford, registered nurse (RN), BRT6HC community wellness nurse; Alexa Swiftwolfe, registered psychiatric nurse (RPN), BRT6HC community wellness nurse; (front row, left to right) Jennifer Marcoux, SHA RN, RAAM; Kirstin Zoller, registered social worker (RSW), SHA RAAM case manager; and Sari Skopyk, SHA medical office assistant (MOA).