A Review of Prescribed Safer Supply Programs Across British Columbia: Recommendations for Future Action

Report
by
Office of the Provincial Health Officer (BC)

Release Date

2024

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

No

Peer Reviewed

No

Objective

Purpose: To provide information on implementation of the provincial Prescribed Safer Supply (PSS) policy, and recommendations to improve benefits and minimize harms.

Findings/Key points

For many, the ideal PSS model would include a continuum of safer supply delivery models, ranging from PSS through to a regulated supply. For others, a highly structured medical-based approach is the way forward. Looking to the future, many clinicians and PWLLE articulated a shared vision for non-stigmatizing, patient-centered, culturally safe, accessible PSS program as part of a continuum of care (including harm reduction, treatment including OAT, withdrawal services, and a spectrum of recovery services) that support PWUD across BC and respects the diversity of client needs and goals.

Keywords

Safer supply
Policy/Regulatory
Evidence base