Using a harm reduction approach with clients who have alcohol/drug dependencies in a spinal cord rehabilitation...

Dissatisfied with the frequently adversarial nature of relationships with clients who use alcohol or drugs while rehabilitation inpatients, and the often less than optimal outcomes for these individuals, the Spinal Cord Program at the G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Center in Vancouver, BC, decided to pilot a new approach.

The goal of the pilot project is to promote successful rehabilitation, including less conflict in rehabilitation, a completed rehabilitation program, and continued connection after discharge if needed.

A dedicated team was formed and trained to work with these clients using harm reduction principles.

From its inception in December 2000, through May 2001, the team worked with 6 inpatients, 12% of admissions to the Spinal Cord Program during that period.

Outcomes based on the above goals have been positive. There have been no discharges against a client's will or instances of significant conflict with the team. Several clients have returned to the center for assistance or to visit post-discharge. Only 1 client left rehabilitation prematurely.