May 15, 2023
Story by Angelle van Kleef
Photographs, courtesy of Canva
Kelly Kokus and Stephany Rochon spoke to the Club about their work with the RAAM Clinic http://www RAAM -.raamclinics.com . The clinic serves the Brant Haldimand Norfolk area. In Simcoe, the clinic is open on Thursdays.
The work is focused on addictions to opiates, alcohol, cannabis, and other chemicals.
Most opiate addictions happen through the overuse of prescription medication. Addictions are treated as chronic illnesses.
People looking for assistance can access all assistance needs in one location, with 80 locations in Ontario. The clinic has a walk-in model. The Simcoe location at 32 Robinson Street is open on Thursdays from 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM. For other time slots, there is a virtual clinic or walk-in at Dunnville or Brantford.
One of the objectives of the clinic is to stabilize clients. They can then return to their regular healthcare provider.
In Ontario, 450 clients are assisted, with numbers increasing annually. The age group is mostly from 18 to. The service is mostly funded by the Ministry of Health.
The success rate is measured by people being able to access medical care, customized treatment, return to stable housing, and access to affordable food and clothing.