Re: “Vancouver Coastal Health considers more drug injection sites,” April 1.
Mike Howell’s article repeatedly makes the incorrect assertion that the Dr. Peter Centre “illegally” offers supervised injection services.
The Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation takes upholding the law very seriously. Let me be clear: supervised injection service is a legal health care service. We initiated the nurse-supervised injection service in 2002 when B.C.’s College of Registered Nurses confirmed it was within the scope of nursing practice to supervise injections for the purposes of preventing illness and promoting health. As an employer, we are upholding provincial law — the B.C. Health Professions Act — by allowing nurses to practice according to determinations made by their governing body. We are also observing federal law: nurses do not provide, possess, or assist with the injection of illegal drugs.
The foundation, together with Vancouver Coastal Health, is seeking an exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act so that clients do not risk criminal prosecution while accessing this legal health care service and so the foundation and its employees are not at risk of criminal prosecution for providing a legal health care service.
Our January 2014 submission reflects respect for our clients and respect for our community. We remain hopeful the application will be approved.
Maxine Davis, Executive director
Dr. Peter AIDS Foundation
