Stimulant use is often part of polysubstance use and can contribute to increased overdose and toxic drug poisoning risk. Family physicians and primary care providers play an important role in supporting patients through patient-centered engagement, harm reduction conversations, assessment of substance use-related harms and co-occurring concerns, and connection to psychosocial supports, community resources, referral pathways, and ongoing care.
To support this work, the Vancouver Division of Family Practice’s Mental Health and Addictions Committee hosted From Assessment to Support: What Family Physicians Need to Know on Stimulant Use Disorder, a webinar designed and facilitated by Dr. Sharon Vipler. Alongside the webinar, two resources were crafted: one to support family physicians in understanding the risks and management of stimulant use disorder.
These resources were developed through situational analysis, family physician input, and guidance from the MHA Committee. We gratefully acknowledge the support of Dr. Lindsay Mackay, Dr. Steven Yau, Dr. Tania Culham, Dr. Jackie Matsyk, Dr. Julie Martz, Dr. Julius Elefante, Dr. Paxton Bach, and Dr. Sharon Vipler.