The following has been sent to all Island Health staff, medical staff, students and volunteers on behalf of:
- Dr. Ben Williams, VP Medicine, Quality & Chief Medical Executive;
- Krista Allan, VP Knowledge, Quality, Research, & Chief Nursing and Allied Health Officer;
- Dr. Réka Gustafson, VP Population and Public Health & Chief Medical Health Officer
January 30, 2023
Introduction to Decriminalization in British Columbia
At Island Health, our Vision is excellent health and care for everyone, everywhere, every time. We are committed to treating all people in our care with respect and dignity. Care should be provided without judgment and free of stigma.
People who use substances are at greater risk of poor health outcomes due to the impact of stigma on their care. We are committed to providing harm reduction-inclusive care to ensure Island Health services are safer and more accessible to people who use drugs. Toxic drug poisonings continue to take lives and affect people, families and communities at a higher rate than ever.
Decriminalization in BC, a provincial and federal initiative to reduce stigma and remove barriers to care and services, aligns with our vision and values, and commitment to a harm reduction approach.
On January 31st, a three-year temporary exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act will come into effect in BC. The exemption means people will not face criminal penalties for possessing small amounts of certain illicit drugs for personal use.
Over the coming weeks, Island Health will update any policies that could be affected by decriminalization, to further outline our approach to caring for people who use and may be in possession of substances. This work will ensure our policies and practices align with decriminalization, our harm reduction policy, and provide a framework for the highest possible quality of care to all those we serve.
If you have questions about harm reduction, and how decriminalization may impact your area of practice, please see Decriminalization FAQ or speak with your leader. You may also reach out to the decriminalization project team via email at decriminalization@islandhealth.ca.
Many members or loved ones of the Island Health family have been affected by the toxic drug poisoning crisis. Let’s continue to hold them up and support them as we continue our journey forward to reduce stigma and improve access to care for all.