B.C. families say they’re sidelined from involvement in addiction treatment
VANCOUVER – Families with loved ones addicted to illicit drugs say they struggle to navigate British Columbia's health-care system and are often prohibited from being involved in treatment.
The Network of Family Members and Caregivers, which works with the BC Centre on Substance Use, has released a report identifying challenges getting help in what they call a non-existent continuum of care that lacks communication.
The report includes the network as well as individuals and representatives of six advocacy groups including Moms Stop the Harm and From Grief to Action.
They're calling on the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to address privacy and confidentiality policies that exclude them in care and to establish support groups across the province.
Leslie McBain, who advocates for families at the BC Centre on Substance Use, says a record number of overdose deaths means it's time for the government to stop consultations and start helping people in desperate need.
The Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions says the minister, Judy Darcy, would not be available for comment.
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