Sarnia's mayor has written the deputy premier of Ontario and minister of health requesting a review of the Safer Supply Program.
In his letter to Sylvia Jones, Mike Bradley said serious concerns have been raised by local healthcare professionals and community stakeholders.
"While there is broad recognition of the need to support individuals living with substance use disorders, concerns relate to the program's current delivery," Bradley wrote. "Reports indicate that high volumes of hydromorphone are being dispensed following virtual assessments, with limited in-person oversight or integrated supports. This raises significant concerns regarding patient safety, clinical oversight, and broader community impacts."
Bradley said the issue is not access to medication, but whether the program is achieving its intended outcomes.
"There is growing concern that it may be contributing to unintended consequences, including the diversion of prescribed medication into the broader community," said Bradley. "Increased availability of these substances outside clinical oversight may contribute to new or worsening dependencies among individuals who were not the intended recipients, with implications for community safety, public health, and overall wellbeing."
Bradley said individual's struggling with addiction require comprehensive, in-person care supported by counselling, treatment programs, and ongoing monitoring.
"There is concern that the current program structure does not consistently provide or require these supports, potentially limiting its effectiveness and impacting both individual recovery and community safety," said Bradley.
"Given the experiences reported in Sarnia, and similar concerns in other municipalities, a review of the current delivery model is respectfully requested. Strengthening oversight and assessing potential, program adjustments would help improve outcomes white reducing negative community impacts," he added.
Bradley said he recognizes the complexity of the opioid crisis and appreciates the province's efforts.
"However, there is a clear and urgent need to refine current approaches to ensure they remain effective and sustainable before unintended consequences further impact community safety and wellbeing," he said.
