The Pacific Northwest Division of Family Practice are hoping to form a task force to develop plans for a new local detox and drug treatment centre.  

After Terrace Coun. James Cordeiro introduced the idea to the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine, the Division is hoping to develop a detailed business plan which outlines the costs and benefits of bringing a detox facility to the northwest. 

Having unsuccessfully argued from the human cost standpoint before, Cordeiro is hoping that a financial argument will be more effective in advancing the proposal. Cordeiro says bringing this facility to the northwest would remove many roadblocks, such as transit and bed availability.

Distance is also a large obstacle people face when trying to get the treatment they need. Although people in the northwest can apply to residential treatment centres in the southern mainland, they would have to relocate in order to attend, which can result in financial hardship. 

The closest location to find treatment options is Prince George, with a wide range offered at the Nechako Centre during the day, as well as the men’s-only long term residential treatment centre Baldy Hughes Therapeutic Community and Farm. 

A meeting between the Pacific Northwest Division of Family Practice and the Regional District is tentatively planned for July 27 where they will discuss the benefits of having a facility in the northwest.

Hear the radio story featuring Coun. Cordeiro below: