Access Central is a new phone service that connects people in BC with addictions care. Currently, Access Central phone lines are available in four health regions: Interior, Fraser, Vancouver Coastal and Vancouver Island. Access Central will arrive in Northern Health in the summer of 2026.

Recovery isn’t straightforward. Access Central makes it easier to get help when you need it and stay supported throughout your recovery journey by bringing addictions care together in one place.

Access Central is part of BC’s Road to Recovery initiative. Learn more about Road to Recovery here.

How does it work?

Access Central supports people in BC over the age of 19 by connecting them with local substance use services, including bed-based services like detox programs (withdrawal management).

You can call the Access Central phone line seven days a week, and within 24 hours, you’ll be able to get a clinical assessment over the phone or be scheduled for an in-person assessment. After that, you’ll get a personalized care plan, which might include placement in a detox bed, rapid access to outpatient services, or connections with treatments like OAT (opioid agonist therapy) or anti-craving medications for alcohol use, depending on what you need. Your team will also offer ongoing support throughout the withdrawal and recovery journey.

What happens when you call?

When you call Access Central, a health-care worker who specializes in addictions care will speak with you about your situation, needs and goals. This information will be used to help find you the right services in the right place. The health-care worker will help you plan your next steps, connect you with the right resources, and support you on your recovery journey.

What about people under 19 years old?

Access Central serves adults (19+), but there are many services available for younger people in BC. Connecting with Foundry is a great place to start. You can access Foundry virtually or contact a physical location near you. (If a young person does call Access Central, they will be redirected to a youth service.)

Find Health Services Across BC

BC has lots of different access points to addictions care, which means there’s no wrong place to start. Aside from calling Access Central, you could speak to a doctor at a clinic, go to a hospital, or call 8-1-1 for advice from a nurse.

Language should never be a barrier to getting the help you need. Read more about multi-language services available in BC.

Learn more about treatment and recovery options in BC.