The persistent divide between harm reduction and traditional addiction treatment approaches remains a significant barrier to providing comprehensive care for individuals with substance use disorders. This presentation, featuring Liz Evans and John Hamilton, aims to bridge this divide by discussing innovative models and examples that effectively engage hard-to-reach populations. The session will emphasize both practical interventions and the cultural shifts needed within treatment teams to foster an emotionally safe environment for clients and staff, ensuring inclusive and effective care.

Innovative Models and Examples

Managed Alcohol Programs (MAPs):

•  • Description: MAPs provide controlled doses of alcohol to individuals with severe alcohol use disorders, aiming to reduce harm and improve quality of life.
•  • Example: The Oaks in Ottawa is a successful example of a MAP that has significantly reduced emergency room visits and improved participants’ overall health. Liberation Programs is set to pilot a MAP, further advancing this innovative model.
•  • Discussion: This model demonstrates a compassionate approach to meet individuals where they are, reducing the immediate harms associated with uncontrolled alcohol use.
• Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD):
•  • Description: MOUD involves the use of medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone to treat opioid use disorder.
•  • Example: Liberation Programs’ mobile outreach services link high-risk populations to MOUD, showcasing its efficacy in reducing overdose deaths and stabilizing lives.
•  • Discussion: MOUD exemplifies a medicalized approach to harm reduction that can be seamlessly integrated into traditional treatment frameworks, offering a lifeline to those struggling with opioid dependence.