SASKATOON — The Saskatchewan government and the Saskatchewan Health Authority are expanding access to addictions treatment in Saskatoon with 40 newly funded mobile withdrawal management spaces.
The province announced $644,000 in annual funding for Medavie Health Services to operate the mobile units, which allow individuals to detox in community or home-based settings. The approach is part of Saskatchewan’s broader Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions, which aims to add 500 new treatment spaces by 2028.
“Mobile withdrawal management spaces are an important option that will enhance access to addictions treatment by meeting individuals where they are,” Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said in a release. “This community-based program enables more individuals to live healthy, safe lives in recovery.”
The mobile program targets individuals considered low-risk for complex withdrawal who may benefit from detoxing in familiar environments, with support from family and friends.
Angela Sereda, senior manager for Medavie’s Mobile Integrated Health team, said the program has already shown success in Saskatoon, and the new funding will help reduce barriers to care and support long-term recovery.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority collaborated with Medavie to integrate the service into existing mental health and addictions programs.
“This program brings mental health and addictions supports directly to the client,” said Zoe Teed-McKay, SHA’s provincial executive director of mental health and addictions. “It helps people access care in a comfortable and familiar setting.”
The 40 mobile withdrawal spaces bring the total to 281 new treatment spaces already created under the government’s plan, including inpatient, outpatient, virtual, and culturally grounded programs across the province.