As an emergency department provider, you are on the front lines of the opioid crisis. You treat the overdoses, the infections, and the traumatic injuries. You also have a unique, critical opportunity to be the bridge to long-term, life-saving care for patients with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The challenge, however, is often finding a referral pathway that is as fast and responsive as the crisis itself.
Arrow Medical was designed to be that pathway. We provide immediate, low-barrier access to evidence-based addiction care. This guide is for ER physicians, nurses, and social workers looking for seamless, effective referrals for opioid use disorder.
The Challenge: The Fleeting Window of Opportunity
After a non-fatal overdose, a patient’s motivation to accept help is often at its peak. Unfortunately, this window can be fleeting. Traditional referral models involving faxes, callbacks, and waitlists often fail to capture this moment, and the patient is lost to follow-up.
Effective referrals for opioid use disorder from the ER need to be:
- Immediate: The patient should be able to access care the next day.
- Simple: No complicated forms or multi-step processes.
- Accessible: The patient needs to know exactly where to go.
The Solution: Arrow Medical’s Walk-In Model
Arrow Medical eliminates the traditional barriers to care. We do not require formal referral forms, and we accept walk-ins for same-day treatment.
How to Refer Your Patient from the ER:
- Print our details. Give the patient our clinic locations and hours for Toronto, Barrie, Bancroft, and Crystal Beach. Let them know which clinic is closest to them.
- Tell them to just walk in. Explain that no appointment is necessary. This is the most crucial part of the referral.
- Frame it as a medical appointment. Explain that they will see a doctor who specializes in addiction, just like they might see a cardiologist for a heart problem.
- No FHO negation. Be assured that our physicians have a focused practice in addiction, meaning there are no FHO-related issues for referrals.
You can tell your patient with confidence: “Go to this address tomorrow. You will see a doctor who can help you without needing to call first.”
What Happens When Your Patient Arrives?
When you refer a patient to us, they receive comprehensive, evidence-based care.
- Immediate Assessment: A specialized addiction medicine physician will conduct a thorough, non-judgmental assessment.
- Same-Day OAT Start: If clinically appropriate, the patient can be started on methadone, Kadian, or Suboxone that very day. This provides immediate stabilization and dramatically reduces their risk of another overdose.
- Comprehensive Care Options: We also offer Sublocade and Safe Opioid Supply programs for patients with specific needs.
- Continuity of Care: You can feel confident that you are discharging your patient to a safe, medical environment where they will receive ongoing, specialized care.
Your role in the ER is to save a life today. By referring your patients to Arrow Medical, you can help save their lives. We are your partners in care.