The B.C. government says more people are now able to access addictions care through the expansion of Access Central, a clinical phone service designed to connect adults with treatment and recovery supports more quickly.

It provides a single phone number in each health region, allowing people seeking help for substance use to be connected with a nurse or trained clinician for assessment within 24 hours.

“Supports like Access Central make a real difference for people on their road to recovery,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health.

“Recovery isn’t straightforward, which is why we’re taking action to strengthen addictions care across B.C. We’re building a full continuum of addictions care, from early intervention to treatment, recovery and aftercare. Road to Recovery meets people where they are and connects them to timely, appropriate and culturally safe services.”

The service is now active in Island Health, Fraser Health, and Interior Health, building on its initial launch in Greater Vancouver in 2023.

The Province says Access Central will eventually expand to Northern Health, making the service available provincewide.

It operates seven days a week. For Island Health, the phone line is available from 9 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.

Through Access Central, callers can receive same- or next-day clinical screenings and assessments, placement in withdrawal management or detox beds, rapid connection to outpatient services, and access to medications.

Ongoing support is also provided throughout the recovery process.

Island Health board chair Leah Hollins says quick access to care is critical when someone makes the decision to seek help, adding that a single phone call can help people begin their recovery no matter where they live.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.