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Manitoba Govt Ignores Overdose Deaths: Sister's Plea
18 Mar
Summary
- Sister slams government for not expanding addiction treatment clinics.
- Brother died after being unable to access timely treatment.
- Inquest recommended increased RAAM clinic access and hours.
Carol Packer is voicing deep concern over Manitoba's lack of plans to open new in-person rapid access to addiction medicine (RAAM) clinics, fearing it hinders efforts to prevent substance-related deaths. Her brother, Lee Earnshaw, died from an accidental overdose in June 2021 after experiencing difficulties accessing RAAM services.
An inquest into Earnshaw's death recommended increasing RAAM clinic capacity and extending walk-in hours to five days a week. Manitoba currently operates seven RAAM clinics, with the last new one opening in 2023. Shared Health, however, has stated no additional in-person facilities are planned, focusing instead on improving virtual access.
Packer argues that virtual options may not serve everyone, particularly those experiencing homelessness who lack necessary devices. She points out that the lack of beds and wait times at existing clinics were critical issues that prevented her brother from receiving timely care, issues she feels virtual services won't adequately address.
The inquest judge also suggested extended hours for a Winnipeg clinic, which currently closes at 4:30 p.m. on weekdays and remains closed on Sundays. Addiction medicine specialist Dr. Ginette Poulin affirms the critical role of RAAM clinics as an entry point for addiction treatment, especially with the current toxic drug supply.
Data from the inquest revealed that one Winnipeg clinic turned away 853 individuals between July 2021 and June 2022. Marion Willis from St. Boniface Street Links notes that people seeking help are still regularly denied access, prompting her organization to explore partnerships with pharmacies for RAAM services. She advocates for a comprehensive revamp of addiction and healthcare services to prevent repeated cycles of substance abuse.
Manitoba's Addictions Minister, Bernadette Smith, stated that many inquest recommendations are already in progress, citing expanded RAAM clinics, a digital option, additional treatment spaces, a protective care centre, and plans for a supervised consumption site. Packer, however, maintains that the absence of plans for new RAAM sites represents a failure to address a core need for accessible treatment.
