GOVERNMENT MOVES TO IMPROVE SECURE CARE LEGISLATION

The Saskatchewan government today introduced amendments to The Youth Drug Detoxification and Stabilization Act that will help to clarify the role of police officers, clarify access to information regarding young clients and ensure appropriate follow-up care after a young person's release from a secure care facility.

"Since its proclamation in April, this legislation has resulted in more than 60 young people receiving detoxification and stabilization services," Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley said. "Since it deals with a very sensitive issue, we have been monitoring its application. After province-wide consultations, we have identified opportunities to improve the Act."

The Youth Drug Detoxification and Stabilization Act is the first legislation of its kind in Canada. It allows for involuntary detoxification and stabilization of a youth through an order by two physicians for a period of up to five days, with possible extensions of one or two additional five-day periods.

Physicians can also order that a young person receive detoxification and stabilization services in his or her home community for up to 30 days.

Amendments introduced in the Saskatchewan Legislature today include:

• Requiring that addictions workers develop, whenever possible, a care plan for young people who are released from the secure care facility. This will help to ensure that young people will receive continued services and support within their home communities.

• Establishing that police officers have the legal authority to transport a young person from the first physician assessment to the second physician assessment.

• Clarifying who can have access to the personal health information of a youth under this legislation.

"This Act is a last-resort measure for parents, legal guardians and judges when substance abuse has badly damaged a young person's decision-making ability," Addley said. "Today, this legislation will better protect that young person's right to privacy and ensure they receive continued support on their healing journey."

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For More Information, Contact:

Joan Petrie Health Regina Phone: 306-787-4083 Email: jpetrie@health.gov.sk.ca