Renewed push to expand heroin-assisted treatment

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – There is another push to expand Heroin-Assisted Treatment, this time at a symposium on today at Oppenheimer Park.

Prominent addictions researchers from Europe are in Vancouver today to talk about ways to combat the opioid crisis gripping the Downtown Eastside.

Organizers say the People’s Symposium on Heroin-Assisted Treatment is a way for the community to learn more about accessing safe opioids.

Jordan Westfall is head of the Canadian Association of People Who Use Drugs.

“I think it’s just a need for public education and this event is a great way to do that.”

“Right now, as you see on the streets, people are dying constantly and the drug supply is toxic and unpredictable. They’re using fentanyl, overdosing and dying.”

One way around that would be to ensure the supply of drugs is pure. Right now, the Crosstown Clinic is the only facility offering Heroin-Assisted Treatment, but Westfall says the results speak for themselves.

“Anyone who uses at Crosstown Clinic, it’s very rare that people overdose and it’s never happened that anyone has ever died.”

But it’s not just about drugs.

“They have access to a wide array of supports, psychological, medical. It’s an entry point for them to back into the healthcare system.”

The People’s Symposium on Heroin-Assisted Treatment happens from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oppenheimer Park.

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