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Updates regarding Vancouver Coastal Health people, programs, services and initiatives.

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VCH opens fifth overdose prevention site

Vancouver, BC – Vancouver Coastal Health has opened its fifth overdose prevention site to help save lives and prevent further harm to those at risk of overdose. The new site is located in a modified first aid trailer at 62 East Hastings Street. VCH is providing clinical support and harm reduction supplies, while PHS Community Services Society and its partners are ensuring the site is staffed 12 hours per day, seven days per week.

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More tools to fight overdoses in Howe Sound region

Vancouver, BC – “Never, ever do anything that could risk your family waking up tomorrow without you.” Those are the words of Jennifer Janson, who wakes up every day without her son, Martin. The 19-year-old died of an accidental overdose of sleeping pills and cocaine in Whistler in 2014.

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Further overdose response action to include BC Mobile Medical Unit and new overdose prevention sites

VICTORIA - In response to the increasing number of overdose-related deaths, the Province is opening additional health-care supports in partnership with health authorities and community partners, Health Minister Terry Lake announced today. Supports include stationing the BC Mobile Medical Unit and setting up overdose prevention sites at overdose hot spots.

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Flu policy for visitors in effect at all VCH facilities

Vancouver, BC – As of today all visitors to Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) facilities are being asked to wear a surgical mask if they haven’t received their annual flu shot. The policy is part of the province’s strategy to prevent the spread of flu and protect already vulnerable patients from a potentially fatal infection.

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New programs to combat overdose crisis

Vancouver, BC – Vancouver Coastal Health, PHS Community Services Society and the Vancouver Area Network of Drug Users are partnering to better respond to the overdose crisis on the streets and in the alleys of the Downtown Eastside. Two new programs are being unveiled today. Both are funded by Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH).

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Peer support program expands to Downtown Eastside

Vancouver, BC – “I’ve been there too, I got through it, and so can you.” With those words, Erika Weikle heads out to meet another client on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. Erika is a peer support worker with Vancouver Coastal Health. Her credentials include an 11-year struggle with mental health and substance use, including six years in institutions and hospitals. “Being a peer support worker brings lived experience to the care team. We bring a fresh perspective to what might be going on with a client,” says Erika.

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