An existing program to help those in distress is being restructured and expanded in the Dryden area.
The program has been aimed at those needing addictions and substance abuse treatment, however it’s being opened up to cover a wide range of care including mental health and crisis response services.
The Dryden Regional Health Centre has been working with the North West LHIN and other partners to better serve all clients.
Doreen Armstrong-Ross is the Chief Executive Officer at the hospital and she says the program will provide a safe environment at a stand-alone treatment centre for those in need.
Armstrong-Ross says the stabilization unit will be a short-term, 30-day type stay to help individuals get back on their feet.
She notes staff will also be able to provide referrals to other services clients may need.
Armstrong-Ross says there is a definite need for the service in Dryden, noting there are no shelters in place for those suffering from addictions or mental health.
“We often see in-patient beds in the hospital, clients that really would be better served elsewhere and this meets that need.”
Armstrong-Ross says the move follows lengthy consultations with local partners and caregivers who identified a cap in service.
The restructuring takes effect in May.
24/7 mobile crisis response services will also be offered.
