The provincial government has added $3.5 million to support those suffering from mental health and addictions at the Health Sciences Centre Emergency Department.
The investment will add staff trained in addictions and mental health care to the new unit including an on-site addiction physician or psychiatrist for weekend and evening shifts.
“The high volume of patients needing addictions and mental health supports continues to put pressure on services and our communities,” said Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen. “By investing in additional clinical staff specializing in substance use, addictions and mental health within HSC’s emergency department, we will improve patient care and emergency wait times for these patients.”
Six additional beds will be part of the new unit including two safe seclusion rooms that will be used for pattens suffering from severe alcohol or drug intoxication including meth-related psychosis.
The minister noted that addiction outreach workers will also be hired to support those who are discharged from the unit.
The new unit and additional staff are expected to reduce the time it currently takes for police officers to clear the hospital when dropping off patients suffering from acute drug or alcohol intoxication.
“Speeding up offload times will allow police officers to more quickly return to patrolling city streets and ensuring they are safe for all Winnipeggers,” said Justice Minister Cliff Cullen.
Since the fall of 2019 the government has invested more than $40 million in new or expanded mental health and addictions services or programs.
© News4.ca 2020
