The provincial government has announced a new way for Manitobans seeking addictions treatment to get access to clinics.
In a release, the province has announced Rapid Access to Addictions Medicine (RAAM) clinics will now be accessible virtually and without an appointment using any smartphone, tablet or computer.
“Manitobans struggling with addictions need access to timely supports from trained professionals who can help,” said Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith. “The new Digital Front Door platform is an innovative approach to increasing access to RAAM clinics that offers another option for those who may face barriers to attending in person for any reason.”
Right now, there are three RAAM clinics in Winnipeg and clinics in Brandon, Thompson, Selkirk and Portage la Prairie with service on a first-come-first-served basis. Spots in these clinics fill up quickly and wait times can be lengthy.
According to the release, the province has set aside $450,000 to help support the Digital Front Door health services platform. Their hope is this will reduce barriers to entry such as travel costs and stigma.
“By introducing the Digital Front Door, we are further reducing barriers to care that people may experience in accessing addiction services, including physical distance from clinics, and providing more options for making the initial contact with RAAM,” said Dr. Erin Knight, medical lead for RAAM, Shared Health. “While there may still be a need for an in-person assessment, many aspects of RAAM services including history, overview of treatment options, harm reduction education and connection to counseling are well suited to virtual care.”
The release also stated harm reduction supplies, including Naloxone, are available at all RAAM clinics.
