SHA seeks provider for addiction treatments

Six-bed facility would counsel young users

The Saskatchewan Health Authority is looking for a provider for six new residential addiction treatment beds in southern Saskatchewan for youth with severe and persistent substance use issues.

The request for proposals closes Nov. 22 and is open to current SHA partners, private-sector providers and community-based organizations in the province. The goal is to keep people between the ages of 12 and 18 closer to their home communities.

An SHA media release said the services would be provided in a culturally appropriate, non-discriminatory and sensitive manner.

Right now, Saskatchewan has 39 beds for youth addictions treatment.

“There is currently a need for residential substance misuse treatment in southern Saskatchewan specifically tailored to youth, enabling those living in this area of the province the opportunity to receive treatment closer to their home communities,” Colleen Quinlan, the SHA’S executive director of mental health and addictions services, integrated urban health, said in a statement.

“While these services will be located in southern Saskatchewan, any youth residing in the province will have access to them.”

The duration of the contract with the provider would be five years, with the option of extending it by an additional two years, according to the RFP document.

The proponent would provide three to six weeks of treatment to patients, which could be extended based on the patients’ needs.