Saskatchewan Health Authority announces new name for the Harm Reduction Methadone Clinic in Regina
Today, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is announcing the renaming of the Harm Reduction Methadone Clinic in Regina, Saskatchewan, to the Opioid Addiction Treatment Clinic (OAT Clinic). The updated name will better reflect the health services offered at the clinic, which center around medical treatment options for opioid addictions.
The SHA recognizes that developing an addiction can happen to anyone and it can be difficult to seek services. As part of this year’s strategic priorities, the SHA is committed to improving access to integrated mental health and addiction services. This includes treatment for opioid addiction as a response to the misuse of opioids within the community and reduce the risk of overdoses and deaths.
”We want to ensure that our services are easy to find, easy to access and offer patients their best opportunity to get started on their recovery journey,” said Dr. Julia Kapur, a SHA Family Medicine Physician at the OAT Clinic in Regina. “Renaming the clinic provides a client-centred approach that offers clarity for all clients, referrals and the general public.”
Opioid agonist therapy, also known as opioid addiction treatment, has been provided through this SHA-funded and -operated addiction services clinic for approximately 20 years using a combination of medication, counselling and other community supports. The clinic helps individuals in Regina and many communities across the province using a holistic and non-judgmental approach to create individualized treatment plans to support client needs along their journey.
Over the years, treatment options for addiction to opioids and the interpretation of the term harm reduction have changed significantly.
“As assessment, treatment and recovery has evolved, we have adapted in order to better serve all of our clients,” said Colleen Quinlan, Executive Director of SHA Mental Health and Addictions. “For approximately 20 years, we’ve helped hundreds of Saskatchewan residents overcome their addiction in a safe, controlled and dignified manner. This name change continues that tradition.”
For additional information, please contact the Opioid Addiction Treatment Clinic by phone at 306-766-6350.