The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and health system partners have been honoured with a 2024 Premier's Innovation Award for implementing nurse prescribing for opioid use disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic. The award for the 'Nurses Respond to BC's Toxic Drug Crisis' initiative recognizes the implementation of Certified Practice for Opioid Use Disorder (CP-OUD) for Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses.
In 2020, the province issued a public health order allowing nurses to prescribe Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT) for clients with opioid use disorder as a response to the ongoing crisis. OAT medications help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings, supporting individuals on their healing journeys.
This groundbreaking and innovative practice was developed collaboratively with the FNHA, the Ministry of Health, BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM), BC Centre on Substance Use (BCCSU), regional health authorities, nurse leaders, and other stakeholders. It is now a regulated and permanent practice for nurses in addressing the toxic drug crisis in BC.
“This recognition is deeply meaningful to me because this work has become a part of who I am. It has been incredible to witness nurses integrating Certified Practice for Opioid Use Disorder into their care, creating meaningful change for First Nations communities affected by the toxic drug crisis. Communities are the experts in their care, and it's an honor to walk alongside them, providing additional healing modalities as needed. This award represents not just innovation but also the power of collaboration and compassion – not only to save lives but to transform them." – Brittany Patey, RN, Opioid Use Disorder Certified, Professional Practice Lead for the FNHA.
The FNHA has supported numerous community-hired and FNHA-hired nurses in achieving CP-OUD certification, including the creation of two FNHA CP-OUD Outreach Nurse positions. FNHA's framework to support communities in OAT programming includes:
- Walking Alongside Community
- Supportive Services
- Dispensing Services
- Prescribing Services
Innovation Award
The 2024 Premier's Innovation Award celebrates exceptional projects, teams, and individuals within the BC Public Service. The Innovation category honors initiatives that transform creative ideas into tangible outcomes through user-focused approaches, leveraging technology, and fostering collaboration.
The Real-Time Virtual Support (RTVS) initiative was the runner-up in the same category for ensuring equitable access to high-quality healthcare in rural, remote, and First Nations communities. This program, under the Rural Coordination Centre of BC, connects rural providers with clinical advice via Zoom or telephone. As part of this effort, FNHA's First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day and First Nations Virtual Substance Use and Psychiatry Service have been instrumental in bridging gaps in care.
To explore the innovative nursing approach to BC's toxic drug crisis, watch the video Nurses Respond to B.C.'s Toxic Drug Crisis or contact 4directions@fnha.ca to connect with your regional lead with the FNHA.
