START (Substance Use Treatment and Response Team)

Provides free access to at-home detox or opioid replacement treatment for those who need help stopping or stabilizing substance use. Individuals must be ages 19 or older; live in Vancouver; have no unstable medical or psychiatric conditions; be in a safe, stable, and substance-free environment; and have a 24-hour support person. The withdrawal process takes up to two weeks from intake to completion, and involves assessment by a nurse and physician; daily home visits during acute withdrawal; and connection to resources in support of ongoing recovery. Opioid dependent clients receive take-home naloxone kits, along with training on proper use for themselves and their support person. Referrals can be made through Access Central-Detox Referral Line (daily hours are 9 am to 9 pm), Central Addictions Intake Team, Access and Assessment Centre (daily hours are 7:30 am to 10 pm), as well as through community health centres and physicians with opioid-dependent clients.