B.C. physicians’ group calls on province to create space in hospitals for overdose prevention

An independent group of physicians on Vancouver Island is once again urging B.C.’s Ministry of Health to fulfill a promise to establish space for overdose prevention at acute care facilities.

In response to the growing crisis of drug-related deaths, an unauthorized overdose prevention site has been established near the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria. Trained volunteers with experience in identifying and responding to drug overdoses will be present at the site, including B.C.’s former chief coroner, Lisa Lapointe, who has been a vocal advocate for harm reduction measures for individuals who use substances.

The group’s efforts to set up overdose prevention sites at hospitals in Victoria and Nanaimo were initially met with resistance from security personnel, forcing them to relocate. However, with the staggering statistics revealing that 2,253 individuals lost their lives to unregulated drugs in 2024 alone, the need for immediate action is undeniable.

Dr. Ryan Herriot, founder of Doctors for Safer Drug Policy and a local family and addictions physician, emphasized the importance of overdose prevention sites in reducing drug-related hazards such as needles and pipes, as well as enhancing workplace safety for healthcare professionals.

Despite ongoing challenges, including the development of “minimum service standards” for overdose prevention sites, Minister of Health Josie Osborne remains committed to ensuring the safety of both individuals who use drugs and healthcare workers. The province’s efforts to enhance access to overdose prevention services in the communities most impacted by the drug-poisoning crisis are commendable.

While some concerns have been raised about the need for standardized service protocols, Dr. Herriot asserts that existing sites have effectively met the necessary standards to provide life-saving interventions. He emphasizes the urgency of responding to the public health emergency of drug-related deaths without being hindered by bureaucratic processes.

As the group continues to advocate for the implementation of essential services to combat the alarming rates of toxic drug poisoning deaths, the ultimate goal remains clear – to ensure that all British Columbians have access to overdose prevention services at major acute care facilities. The unwavering dedication of healthcare professionals and volunteers in addressing this crisis underscores the critical need for collaborative and proactive approaches to saving lives.