THUNDER BAY — The province will permit an overdose prevention site on Simpson Street to stay open until March 31 while it continues to review applications for operating this kind of facility under a new model.
NorWest Community Health Centres started the service last November, offering clients a safe place to consume illicit drugs under the supervision of health care professionals. It also links individuals with other harm reduction and addiction services.
NorWest only had approval to provide the service until Jan. 31, after an extension was granted beyond the initial date of Dec. 31, 2018.
The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has now confirmed that the Thunder Bay site and other existing sites in Ontario may operate while their applications remain under review.
The ministry has previously stated that its new model—the Consumption and Treatment Services program—expands the focus beyond overdose prevention to a longer-term goal of helping drug users receive treatment and rehabilitation services as well.
"It is anticipated that approved organizations will transition to CTS by the spring of 2019," a ministry spokesperson indicated Wednesday in an email to Tbnewswatch.
NorWest Community Health Centres has not yet disclosed how many people are using its facility, but has said usage is increasing gradually.
