SIX MONTHS OF HOPE FROM HEALTHLINE

Registered nurses have responded to nearly 300 addictions-related inquiries since the government enhanced HealthLine, its health information telephone advice line, in April.

Saskatchewan Health enhanced HealthLine in response to interim recommendations made by Legislative Secretary to the Premier on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment, Graham Addley.

"When I released my interim report in April, I stressed the need to implement certain services right away," Addley said. "I was happy to see the government respond quickly by enhancing HealthLine services and increasing information to the public."

As well as providing general information and referrals to primary health care providers or other programs, HealthLine nurses are able to provide referrals to specialized addictions counselling on a 24-hour basis for individuals and families struggling with substance abuse. Through an awareness campaign, the department also promoted the enhanced HealthLine service and distributed information about the signs of crystal meth and other addictions.

"Six months ago we listened to the need expressed by the public through Graham Addley's consultations," Health Minister John Nilson said. "People wanted more information about substances like crystal meth, and they wanted access to this information anytime, anywhere. We are happy to report that our enhanced HealthLine service is filling that need, giving people access to registered nurses and specialized addictions counsellors 24-hours a day."

"Callers indicate the information they receive is helpful," HealthLine director John Masters said. "They appreciate the seven day a week, 24-hour personal service from professional registered nurses. The more public education we can provide on addictions, the more informed decisions callers can make."

The enhanced HealthLine services are part of Premier Lorne Calvert's Project Hope, a three-year plan to prevent and treat substance abuse. The government has committed $10 million of new annual funding for the project, in addition to the $4.7 million announced in the 2005-06 budget. This new funding is based on the 15 recommendations contained in the report Healthy Choices in a Healthy Community by Legislative Secretary on Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Graham Addley.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jocelyn Argue Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083