Pubdate: Sun, 04 Dec 2016
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2016 Times Colonist
Contact:  http://www.timescolonist.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: Sarah Petrescu
Page: A1

NEW INVESTIGATION TEAM AIMS TO CURB OVERDOSE DEATHS

A specialized drug-investigation team has been launched by the B.C.
Coroners Service to help curb the alarming rate of overdose deaths.

"We're trying to take a broad approach to get a really clear picture
of any trends to support the health authorities in prevention," said
chief coroner Lisa Lapointe.

Two weeks ago, Island Health issued an urgent warning to illicit drug
users after seven overdoses in one week - including five in Victoria
within 72 hours. This occurred at the same time the health authority
held public consultations about three planned supervised-consumption
sites and amid a provincewide overdose crisis that has killed more
than 622 people this year.

The investigation team is made up of coroners across B.C., who now
take jurisdiction over deaths involving illicit drugs. The idea is to
fast-track toxicology reports and investigate the person's medical
history, including prescription use and drug treatment, as well as
housing situations.

"Many of the deaths occur outdoors or at private residences. The
message is out there: 'If you are going to use, make sure you are
somewhere with access to medical help,' " Lapointe said.

"We want to look at living accommodations and supporting housing. When
health authorities have that information, they can target populations
more at risk."

Lapointe said $450,000 in funding for the team came from the $10
million the province targeted toward the overdose crisis in September.
They'll look back at cases to Jan. 1 of this year, and Lapointe said
she hopes the first report will be out within six months.

According to a Freedom of Information request, Island Health
anticipated it would spend $450,000 this year on the overdose crisis.
The total provincial spending was $5.77 million.
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MAP posted-by: Matt