Opioid Use Disorder (OUD)
OUD is a chronic condition characterized by repeated use of opioids despite persistent or recurrent physical, social, and interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of opioids. OUD is diagnosed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or specially trained registered nurses (RNs) or registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs).
Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT)
OAT is a safe and effective treatment option for people diagnosed with OUD. These medications help prevent withdrawal and reduce cravings for opioids. They have been proven to reduce harms related to OUD.
OAT can be a meaningful part of the healing journey, offering relief and stability, and allowing people to engage in activities and access services that support connection, community, culture, and healing.
Learn more about accessing OAT and find answers to common questions in the resources section below.
Types of OAT:
Medications to Support Wholistic Substance Use Care (PDF infosheets)
How to Access OAT:
OAT may be prescribed by physicians, nurse practitioners, or certified practice nurses for Opioid Use Disorder through public service providers, private clinics and bed-based or outpatient treatment programs. OAT medications are usually accessed at a pharmacy but can be provided in other settings if required and the necessary supports are in place.
Certified Practice for Opioid Use Disorder
Registered nurses (RNs) and registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs) who complete specialized training and education to obtain Certified Practice for Opioid Use Disorder can assess, diagnose, and prescribe medications within their scope of practice and in accordance with the requirements set by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM). FNHA supports RNs and RPNs working with First Nations communities and organizations to complete this training. For more information, email SUNursing@fnha.ca.
OAT Medication Coverage
OAT medications are covered for First Nations clients through BC PharmaCare Plan Z.
OAT Clinic Fees
When you access OAT through a public service provider, the cost of treatment is covered by the Medical Services Plan (MSP). OAT services that are provided through private clinics may charge a monthly fee for their programs and these fees are not covered by MSP. FNHA provides direct reimbursement for OAT clinic fees not covered by MSP. If you have questions, please contact oatclinicfees@fnha.ca.
For OAT Service Providers:
Complete the OAT clinic subsidy application form with your client. Please obtain the client's signature on the application form for all services delivered. (OAT Clinic Subsidy Application Form)
Prepare a service invoice each month and indicate “Bill to: First Nations Health Authority" on the invoice. FNHA will not process invoices that do not indicate this field.
Email the completed application form and the service invoice to oatclinicfees@fnha.ca or fax to 604-666-3867.
FNHA will confirm the applicant's First Nations status and approve the service provider on an individual client basis.
Once FNHA has approved a client, the service provider must send a client-signed application form and a service invoice every month to continue subsidization through FNHA. NOTE: In recognition that services may now be provided via Telehealth in response to precautions related to COVID-19, the provider can fill in the locations (city or Nation) of the client and the provider in place of where we would typically require a client's signature on the invoice.
Additional Resources:
