Nova Scotia Health’s decision to suspend overnight detox beds at Cape Breton Regional Hospital in July was initially meant to last two weeks for the recruitment of a new overseeing doctor. However, after almost four months, the delay is causing concern among those seeking immediate assistance for substance-use withdrawal.
Blair Kasouf, a retired lawyer and advocate for addictions medicine, emphasized the urgency of providing timely care to individuals seeking help for addiction issues. He stressed that immediate access to treatment is crucial, as delays in appointments could deter individuals from seeking help.
Dr. David Martell, the medical lead for addictions treatment in Nova Scotia, acknowledged the challenges in recruiting physicians for specialized services due to the demanding nature of the work. While efforts are being made to fill the vacant position, the hospital is currently managing most patients through its outpatient day program.
Martell highlighted the success of the hospital’s shift towards outpatient services, with approximately 80% of patients receiving treatment at the day program. Despite this, the strain on emergency departments and inpatient wards persists due to capacity issues.
While recruitment efforts for a doctor to oversee inpatient detox services are ongoing, Kasouf expressed concerns about referring patients with severe withdrawal symptoms to the emergency department. He emphasized the need for specialized care for individuals in recovery to prevent disruptions and provide appropriate support.
Kasouf also criticized the practice of using the emergency department as a “dumping ground” for social issues, noting that individuals with addiction may turn back to substance use if faced with long wait times in the ER. He emphasized the importance of considering the impact on both staff and patients seeking urgent medical care.
Overall, the community is eagerly awaiting the recruitment of a dedicated physician for inpatient detox services to ensure timely and specialized care for individuals struggling with substance-use withdrawal.