RAAM clinics receive support from provincial government

The Rapid Access to Addictions Medicine (RAAM) clinics around the province will be receiving support from the provincial government.

Mental Health and Community Wellness Minister Sarah Guillemard announced that the $390,000 will go toward expanding services and increasing capacity. RAAM clinics provide patients with various supports, including addictions medicine specialists, primary-care providers and community services. 

“As our province continues to contend with a rise in problematic substance use related to the COVID-19 pandemic, our government is taking concrete action to help meet the growing demand for addictions services and ensure Manitobans have access to a wide range of supports,” says Guillemard. “RAAM clinics have proven to be a successful model of care for addictions treatment, and this investment will increase their capacity to help those in need of services.”

More than 12,500 Manitobans are registered for RAAM clinic services. With the money invested, the Portage la Prairie clinic will be able to bring on additional staff.

“RAAM clinics provide much-needed care for Manitobans living with substance use disorders,” notes Dr. Erin Knight, RAAM medical lead, Shared Health. “With demand for addiction services on the rise, increasing hours and staffing of RAAM clinics throughout the province will allow us to better meet the needs of the people reaching out for help every day.”

Since 2018, the Manitoba government has invested over $10 million in RAAM clinics. The government is also working alongside Southern Health-Santé Sud to increase access to virtual services.

For the full press release from the government of Manitoba, click here.