Manitobans can now get addictions treatment through Rapid Access to Addictions Medicine (RAAM) clinics virtually and without an appointment using any smartphone, tablet or computer.
Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith said Wednesday, “Manitobans struggling with addictions need access to timely supports from trained professionals who can help. The new Digital Front Door platform is an innovative approach to increasing access to RAAM clinics that offers another option for those who may face barriers to attending in person for any reason.”
RAAM clinics are drop-in clinics for people looking for help with substance use and addictions including those who may want to try medical assistance to reduce or stop their substance use. There are currently three RAAM clinics in Winnipeg and clinics in Brandon, Thompson, Selkirk and Portage la Prairie. Services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis and the walk-in clinics fill up quickly, noted Smith.
The Manitoba government provided more than $450,000 to support the development of the Digital Front Door health services platform, which enables existing RAAM clinics to offer virtual drop-in clinics led by nurses. Using the platform, individuals can virtually “walk in” to RAAM clinics without an appointment using any device including smartphones, tablets or computers.
The minister noted the virtual option reduces barriers to access, including the need to travel, transportation costs and fear of stigma, which prevents many people from receiving the type of services offered by RAAM clinics. The platform is already increasing timely access to RAAM clinics at all seven locations in Manitoba, the minister said.
“By introducing the Digital Front Door, we are further reducing barriers to care that people may experience in accessing addiction services, including physical distance from clinics, and providing more options for making the initial contact with RAAM,” said Dr. Erin Knight, medical lead for RAAM, Shared Health. “While there may still be a need for an in-person assessment, many aspects of RAAM services including history, overview of treatment options, harm reduction education and connection to counseling are well suited to virtual care.”
RAAM clinics can also treat substance-related health issues such as hepatitis, pancreatitis or infections. Harm reduction supplies, including Naloxone, are available at all RAAM clinics. For more information on RAAM clinics in Manitoba, including how to access digital services, visit: RAAM Clinic – Shared Health (sharedhealthmb.ca)
