MSD Prepares to Transform

In 2023, excitement grew at GSS about government funding for a new Medically Supported Detox building and plans moved ahead to find a new site. This was amazing news for a program that’s been a core agency service since GSS began in 1983.

The future Detox will be in west central Edmonton by the new LRT station and the building will, literally, be new. The bigger Detox can serve more clients which is a huge win for a team that regularly has to turn individuals away. Beds will almost double from the current 41 (31 detox and 10 recovery beds) to 60 (41 detox and 19 recovery beds). To serve the increased client numbers, the current staff of about 40 will increase by 40%.

Lindy Dowhaniuk, Director of Emergency Services, is excited about possibilities in the new space: “Instead of close quarters, crooked walls and ongoing maintenance needs, we’ll have space for private client meetings and education sessions. And staff can have their own space, meeting rooms, and showers.” The site could also make some innovative care possible.

Plans are advancing for an onsite physician with links to other care partners. Lindy says this could mean an exciting, new type of support: a follow up clinic space so people who leave Detox can come back and see the doctor. This could be a way for Detox to stay connected to clients and play a part in their lives after discharge. “With an open door”, she says, “individuals can come back to reinforce their wellness and an alumni could develop to help new clients see they can recover—this would help clients and also boost staff morale.”

It's estimated that Detox could move by the end of 2024, so the staff have a year to prepare. Then, Detox services will be offered in a brand new building instead of one that was probably built in the 70s. Lindy connects the new space to a positive impact on client service and client recovery: “Detox staff deserve a space to do well, and clients deserve a space to get well.”