Project Objectives:

• Strengthen the ability of family physicians to provide care to patients through education around the College prescribing standards, improving patient - physician attachment and developing standard of care protocols.
• Identify services available in the community and improve awareness and access to the services.
• Develop collaborative care approach to improve communication and referrals to addictions specialists and pain support services.
• Provide pain management support and education for patients and providers to help patients manage pain more effectively.

Intended Outcomes:

• Coordinated approach to care that involves collaboration among GP’s SP’s, addictions services, patients/families, physio and mental health services.
• Improved awareness and access to addiction services and chronic pain management.
• Safe prescribing practices.
• Comfort/GP confidence in supporting patients struggling with addictions.
• Appropriate use of hospital services; reduced ER visits.
• Patients and families feel supported and have a stronger relationship with their GP.
• Reduction in patients seeking street narcotics to deal with pain.
• Patients and physicians are educated in pain management and have access to tools and resources.