Review of ‘Safer Supply’ Programs Requested by 72 BC Doctors
Seventy-two B.C. doctors have joined together to express their criticism of provincial “safer supply” strategies and advocate for improved safety measures and further research on the potential risks of such programs.
Among these doctors is Dr. Mark Mallet, a hospitalist at Victoria General Hospital in B.C., who expressed his concerns about the NDP government’s assertions regarding safer supply in an op-ed published in the Times Colonist. He emphasized the need for the province to carefully balance the risks and benefits of safer supply programs.
These programs offer prescribed drugs to individuals at a high risk of overdose as an alternative to acquiring illegal substances on the streets.
After receiving substantial support from the medical community following his op-ed, Dr. Mallet, along with 71 other doctors, wrote a letter to Premier David Eby and various provincial and federal ministers, urging for change.
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The article references a recommendation from B.C.’s chief medical officer, Bonnie Henry, calling for an expansion of the program to encompass a broader range of prescribed alternatives.
Dr. Mallet’s op-ed appeared in print after Dr. Henry’s report was released, suggesting a change in labeling from “safer supply” to “prescribed alternatives to the toxic supply” to align the program with common prescription practices.
Dr. Henry also proposed the establishment of a scientific and clinical committee to address concerns about safer supply, highlighting the need for further evidence to support the efficacy of prescribed safer supply programs.
Dr. Mallet emphasized the importance of evidence-based practices, disputing claims that opposition to program expansions is merely fear-mongering.
The Risks of PSS
Dr. Henry’s assessment highlighted potential risks associated with prescribed safer supply, including drug diversion and increased opioid accessibility among youth.
Reports have indicated that individuals receiving safe supply drugs often resell them to purchase more potent illicit drugs, leading to addiction issues among young people.
Dr. Mallet criticized the lack of attention given to these risks, emphasizing the need for rigorous monitoring and documentation of all prescribed safer supply programs.
Despite Dr. Henry’s findings, both she and the provincial NDP government remain committed to expanding safer supply programs as a measure to prevent drug overdoses.
Dr. Mallet called for a pause in program expansions until the safety and effectiveness of such initiatives are adequately demonstrated through empirical research.
He concluded by asserting the necessity of evidence-based decision-making in public health initiatives and emphasized the responsibility of all stakeholders to demand robust evidence in support of program expansions.
The Epoch Times reached out to several government officials for comment but did not receive a response at the time of publication.
Auditor General Report
The B.C. auditor general also criticized the prescribed safer supply program and overdose prevention services for significant deficiencies, highlighting the need for a comprehensive action plan to address implementation barriers.
The report underscored the importance of transparent reporting on the performance of prescribed safer supply programs to ensure accountability and effectiveness.
B.C. pioneered safer supply initiatives in response to a devastating overdose crisis, with more than 14,000 lives lost since 2016 due to toxic, unregulated drugs.
While federal and provincial leaders have raised concerns about drug diversion and trafficking, advocates maintain the importance of safer supply programs in curbing overdose fatalities.
The ongoing debate underscores the need for evidence-based policy decisions and comprehensive research to guide the expansion of safer supply programs and address public health challenges effectively.
Tara MacIsaac contributed to this report.
