DETOX SUPPORT ON THE WAY FOR EASTERN FRASER VALLEY

A new home/mobile detox program to serve the eastern Fraser Valley is
being launched by Fraser Health shortly to replace the withdrawal
management unit shut down in Chilliwack last year due to cutbacks.

Although it is not accepting clients yet, program officials are in
the preparation phases for the next two weeks, said a Fraser Health official.

The medically managed detox support services will be geared to
supporting anyone struggling with drug dependency and withdrawal on
an out-patient basis, with plans for home and mobile detox as well as
a "daytox" program, which will be supervised from the local hospital.

It's designed for those addicted to drugs or alcohol in communities
like Chilliwack, Abbotsford or Hope, who may not want or need
in-patient detox, but who meet the criteria for the new program.

Coun. Diane Janzen, who chairs the city's health committee, said the
proposed approach offers a mix of detox services and options.

After the 10-bed detox unit was closed at Chilliwack General last
fall, city officials sought meetings with Fraser Health to address
the fallout and find ways to fill in the gaps.

"We are cautiously optimistic and will work closely with Fraser
Health to see how this will all work out," Janzen said.

After a year or so, they'll want to review the numbers to see how
many are accessing the services, or if changes need to be made.

The community-based detox/daytox program will provide services
wrapped around the needs, desires and situation of the individual,
according to a release from Fraser Health's Mental Health and Addictions.