Island Health will launch a new toll-free phone line January 19 that provides same-day assessment and connection to substance use care, including Addiction Medicine.
Anyone in the Island Health region can call Access Central at 1-888-885-8824 daily from 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Callers can self-refer and receive:
- Clinical assessments for Addiction Medicine and substance use care
- Individualized care planning, including transportation coordination
- Consult for opioid agonist treatment (OAT) and other medications
- Assessment for withdrawal management (detox) and treatment services
- Information and help finding the right resources
Transportation will be provided for individuals with challenges, particularly those in rural and remote locations.
Referring patients
Referrals to withdrawal management will continue to be accepted through Pathways. If you cannot access Pathways, simply call Access Central, or submit the PDF referral form to amsu.accesscentral@islandhealth.ca.
Access Central is a direct line to service. For Addiction Medicine consultation and support, please continue to use:
- RACE Toll Free: 1-877-696-2131
- BCCSU 24/7 line: 778-945-7619
The Access Central number is the same as Service Link, which this is an expansion on.
More information
More information can be found on the Access Central intranet page for Island Health staff, and islandhealth.ca/addiction-care.