Rapid Access to Addictions Medicine (RAAM)

RAAM clinics are walk-in clinics for adults (ages 18+) looking to get help with high-risk substance use and addiction. This includes people who want to try medical assistance to reduce or stop their substance use. They may experience frequent intoxication or overdose symptoms, as well as unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when attempting to reduce or stop their substance use. RAAM clinics are also for people who may have substance-related health issues, such as hepatitis, pancreatitis and infections. No referral is needed.RAAM clinics are not for people needing urgent medical attention for serious physical problems or mental health symptoms such as psychosis (paranoia, delusions, hallucinations), agitation; who are at active risk of harm to self or others, or who require police/security involvement.It can be very difficult to accept that your substance use is problematic, and it’s normal to feel ashamed, frightened, or angry. But the good news is that medical treatment for problematic substance use and addiction is safe and effective. People can and do recover from addiction.You don’t need an appointment, just show up during clinic hours. If you have a Manitoba Health card or Manitoba Health number, please bring this along.WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I GO TO A RAAM CLINIC?If you’re feeling anxious or hesitant about going to the RAAM clinic, consider bringing a supportive person with you. This may make you feel less overwhelmed and less alone.The clinic team will complete a health history including questions about your substance use such as:when and how you started usinghow much and how frequently you usehow it may impact your life and responsibilitiesThe clinic team is there to help you. These questions are to get a complete picture ofyou in order to determine how to best help you.The posted clinic hours are for new walk-in patients seeking RAAM clinic services. In addition, the RAAM clinical team – physician, counsellor, nurse – provides follow-up to patients, coordinating medication management, making referrals to other services, supporting and consulting with other providers, and informing other service providers about RAAM clinic services. For youth under 18 years old, please contact the Youth Addiction Centralized Intake service. Call 1-877-710-3999 (8:30 am – 4:30 pm, weekdays) or visit: www.manitoba.ca/health/mh/addictions/youth.html