With peer support, Hamilton hospital helps build trust, provide comfort for those in substance use program

Marcie McIlveen never imagined herself working in a hospital. After enduring negative experiences in treatment for substance use disorder on multiple occasions, she developed a strong aversion to the healthcare system. “I hated health care, did not like it, wanted nothing to do with it,” McIlveen explained.

However, her past experiences paved the way for the meaningful work she does today. As the peer support supervisor of a groundbreaking project at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, McIlveen plays a crucial role in offering support to patients in the substance use program. Peer supporters like McIlveen provide companionship, comfort items, and a listening ear to patients in need.

But how did someone who despised hospitals end up leading a pilot program? It all started with a job handing out lunches to those in need. About five years ago, McIlveen, who was in recovery, began working with the Hamilton organization Keeping Six without realizing its connection to the Hamilton Social Medicine Response Team (HamSmart). Despite her initial reluctance, McIlveen eventually built trust with Dr. Tim O’Shea and Dr. Robin Lennox, who were involved with these organizations.

After visiting hospitals to support individuals receiving care, the trio recognized the need to formalize peer support within the healthcare setting. They collaborated on a proposal for the project, which received funding from the James A. Burton & Family Foundation and Health Canada. This initiative marked the first time peer supporters were integrated into the department of medicine at St. Joe’s, with plans to expand the program to other hospitals in the Hamilton Health Sciences network.

Describing her work as “walking with people,” McIlveen emphasizes the importance of meeting patients where they are without judgment or expectations. While discussions may touch on treatment options, the primary goal is to provide compassionate care and support individuals on their unique journeys. The program offers three months of follow-up support post-discharge to ensure continuity of care.

Despite facing backlash against harm reduction practices, St. Joe’s remains committed to supporting the peer support program. Dr. Madeleine Verhovsek, chief of medicine at the hospital, acknowledges the importance of addressing gaps in care and providing a compassionate environment for patients. The peer supporters function as patient advocates, working alongside healthcare professionals to enhance the overall patient experience.

As the program expands to include additional peer supporters, McIlveen emphasizes the importance of supporting one another within the team. Despite challenges in the healthcare landscape, she remains dedicated to providing quality care and fostering a sense of community for those in need.

In a time when harm reduction services are under scrutiny, the peer support program at St. Joe’s stands as a beacon of hope for individuals struggling with substance use disorder. By offering a non-judgmental and supportive approach to care, McIlveen and her team are making a positive impact on the lives of patients in Hamilton. Their commitment to providing inclusive and compassionate healthcare is a testament to the power of peer support in transforming the healthcare landscape.