Pubdate: Thu, 16 Jun 2016
Source: Metro (Vancouver, CN BC)
Page: 6
Copyright: 2016 Metro Canada
Contact:  http://www.metronews.ca/vancouver
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3775
Author: David P. Ball

VANCOUVER DRUG DOC IN WASHINGTON

Safe Injection Site Physician Testifies on Opioid Epidemic

The U.S. Senate turned to Vancouver for answers to America's drug 
woes on Wednesday, flying in the B.C. doctor behind a prescription 
heroin study to testify about his pioneering treatment trial.

Dr. Scott MacDonald, lead physician at Providence Health Care's 
Crosstown Clinic, spoke at the request of the Republican-dominated 
Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, the Senate's 
most powerful committee.

"In British Columbia we need every tool in the toolbox to rise to the 
challenge the opioid epidemic presents," MacDonald told committee 
members. "Of course we would like to see an end to people dependent 
on heroin but for those already suffering it is essential to provide 
care, and care based on evidence.

"Without our treatment this group's only option would be illicit 
opioids through the narco-capitalist networks. We still have people 
who use drugs on the street in Vancouver, but we do have another option."

Crosstown Clinic conducted two landmark pilot studies, known as NAOMI 
and SALOME, which examined the effects of doctor-prescribed opioids 
on heroin addicts over the long run. The research proved successful 
in treating addictions, he testified, and additionally crime 
involvement by those involved dropped dramatically.

It wasn't clear whether the Senate committee members heeded 
MacDonald's advice, but Johnson acknowledged America's approach to 
addiction hasn't worked so far.

"This is really about looking at different approaches," he said. 
"Let's talk about this significant problem and what the reality of 
the situation is, and move forward with some approaches that make sense."
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom