Pubdate: Wed, 15 Apr 2015
Source: Vancouver Courier (CN BC)
Copyright: 2015 Vancouver Courier
Contact:  http://www.vancourier.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/474
Author: Maxine Davis
Page: A11
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v15/n195/a05.html

DR. PETER CENTRE DOESN'T BREAK THE LAW WITH DRUG INJECTIONS

Re: "Vancouver Coastal Health considers more drug injection sites," April 1.

Mike Howell's article repeatedly makes the incorrect assertion that
the Dr. Peter Centre "illegally" offers supervised injection services.

The Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation takes upholding the law very seriously.
Let me be clear: supervised injection service is a legal health care
service. We initiated the nurse-supervised injection service in 2002
when B.C.'s College of Registered Nurses confirmed it was within the
scope of nursing practice to supervise injections for the purposes of
preventing illness and promoting health. As an employer, we are
upholding provincial law - the B.C. Health Professions Act - by
allowing nurses to practice according to determinations made by their
governing body. We are also observing federal law: nurses do not
provide, possess, or assist with the injection of illegal drugs.

The foundation, together with Vancouver Coastal Health, is seeking an
exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act so that
clients do not risk criminal prosecution while accessing this legal
health care service and so the foundation and its employees are not at
risk of criminal prosecution for providing a legal health care service.

Our January 2014 submission reflects respect for our clients and
respect for our community. We remain hopeful the application will be
approved.

Maxine Davis,

Executive director Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation
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MAP posted-by: Matt