Addictions Strategic Direction

The Ministry of Health works with health regions, First Nations and community-based organizations to spread awareness of addictions issues, promote healthy choices and provide services for people who have substance abuse issues.

The Ministry of Health has increased its investment in addiction treatment facilities, including a recently-opened 45-bed detoxification facility in Regina, six youth stabilization beds at Saskatoon's Calder Centre and a 14-bed detox facility in Prince Albert. Under construction in 2011 are an eight-bed family treatment facility in Prince Albert and, in co-operation with Prince Albert Grand Council, a 15-bed youth inpatient treatment centre.

The Ministry is involved in several cross-jurisdictional efforts to pool knowledge and ideas about addictions issues, including the Canadian Northwest FASD Partnership, whose members collaborate on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disrorder prevention and support methods. The Ministry measures the results of addiction programs and coordinates education campaigns about the dangers of drugs, alcohol and gambling.