Fraser Health out with a warning after a spike in overdose deaths last week

SURREY (NEWS 1130) – Fraser Health says preliminary data shows there was a “notable” spike in potential overdose cases last week throughout the region.

From Surrey to Hope there were 17 suspected deaths linked to drug use.

Most of the deaths are still happening inside people’s homes, followed by hotels and motels.

“There is a hidden epidemic, with nearly 70 per cent of overdose deaths in Fraser Health occurring at home,” says Fraser Health Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Victoria Lee. “Our targeted response is an important step in supporting people who are at a higher risk of dying.”

The health authority says it is doing the following as a result of the “hidden epidemic” inside the home.

• Since eight out of 10 people who died at home presented to our emergency departments at least once in the 12 months prior to their deaths, we are implementing a process in our emergency departments to identify people who may be at risk, and offer supports such as first-line treatment (Suboxone) for opioid use disorder.
• We are contacting all patients that overdosed at home within 48 hours of discharge from emergency departments to assist them in accessing our services.
• As many of these individuals have histories of injuries and pain management concerns, we are implementing opioid stewardship to ensure more appropriate prescribing practices. We have begun working with other health professionals such as physiotherapists and chiropractors to enhance the options for pain management available to people suffering from chronic pain.
• Since the majority of patients list family physicians in their health records, we are providing family physicians with a notification when their patients overdose and we are working with family physicians to reduce barriers to accessing naloxone.
• As this hidden epidemic is disproportionately affecting men between the ages of 19 and 59 in trade industries, we are engaging with groups outside the health care sector, such as employers, technical schools, and sports associations, which may be able to assist in identifying and supporting individuals who are struggling with substance use. This September, we will host a workshop to identify interventions for this population.
• Since many of these individuals live with a loved one whom they identify as a support, we are seeking opportunities to engage with these family members to help prevent overdoses from occurring.