News Release Archive

HEALTH--NEW PICTOU DETOX CENTRE OPENS DOORS
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The new detox centre for residents of Pictou and the surrounding
area officially opened today at 199 Elliott Street as part of the
Northern Region Drug Dependency Services, with a ribbon cutting
ceremony.

The new detox centre is an important step toward enhancing
regional services for residents with drug, alcohol and gambling
problems.

The 17 bed detox centre will offer better services and more
flexibility in programs. There will be more privacy and space for
patients and improved service and accommodations for women. The
centre currently offers a range of services such as
detoxification, a treatment orientation program, and prevention
and community education programs. Central outpatient services are
also provided including individual, family and group therapy. It
is expected that the new facility will have approximately 900
admissions in 1997.

"Our new centre is allowing us to provide better services to our
clients and the community overall and will give us the
opportunity to eventually introduce additional programs," said
Bob MacDonald, director, Northern Region Drug Dependency
Services. "It's an excellent example of community-based
programming at work."

The detox centre started admitting patients Jan. 3, 1997. It
employs 26 staff members and replaces the former facility on
Beeches Road.

The public is invited to attend an open house at the new detox
centre today from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

In addition to the Pictou facility, Northern Drug Dependency
Services has drug dependency outpatient offices in New Glasgow,
Amherst and Truro. Cobequid Drug Dependency Services also offers
detox programs and outpatient services in Springhill.

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Contact: Sue McKeage  902-424-3581

trp                         Feb. 20, 1997 - 10:10 a.m.