RAAM Clinic
All clients must enter from the client parking lot.
Clients must enter RAAM through the original entrance.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinics are operating and continue to serve the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Clients can call to book an appointment, and referrals are still being accepted from service providers.
RAAM provides rapid access to specialized addiction medicine, counselling, and peer support at both sites, and virtually. The RAAM Clinic team is working to keep the community safe by following social distancing recommendations, offering telephone and video appointments when possible with access to the technology to connect with the clinic at both sites, screening clients when in-person appointments are necessary, and using personal protective equipment.
To further increase safety of clients and staff, the RAAM clinics are now operating out of Norwest Community Health Centre ONLY, during clinic hours from 2:00pm to 5:00pm, Monday to Thursday at 525 Simpson Street. Walk-ins have been paused for the time being, but please call us and we will schedule an appointment for you.
Those looking to book an appointment can call: (807) 626-8478.
Walk-In & By Appointment
Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM)
A clinic to support individuals living with substance use issues.
- Timely Access
- Evidence Informed Treatment
- Assertive Intervention
What We Do
The RAAM Clinic provides specialized services and care for individuals seeking treatment for any substance use issue. Our team offers judgement free services in a safe and healing environment.
Individuals are welcome on a walk-in basis during clinic hours. We also receive formal referrals.


Can the RAAM Clinic Help You?
The RAAM Clinic is not a medical detox, long-term addiction treatment facility or a family medicine clinic.
Free Services
Our services are free of charge and include:
- Assessment of substance use concerns
- Review of treatment options including harm reduction and abstinence
- Prescription of addiction medications
- Education and support related to withdrawal
- Counselling and peer support services
- Education on overdose prevention and the use of Naloxone
- Referral to longer-term supports for ongoing care, if required
- Access to traditional healers and Indigenous cultural support.
Not Provided
What we don’t do
The RAAM Clinic does not provide:
- Diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain
- Narcotic prescriptions outside of narcotic dependence treatment protocols
- Long-term medical or addictions counselling services.
Support
We support individuals who need:
- Support to address substance use issues
- Help to reduce cravings
- Assistance if substance use is negatively impacting your life
- A welcoming and judgement free place to talk about your substance use
- Transportation provided, if needed.
Eligibility
Am I eligible?
- Available to individuals 16 years of age and over
- Self-referrals and walk-ins are welcome
- Additional supports are available to those who need to obtain an Ontario Health Card.
RAAM Client Video
How to Access the RAAM Clinic
Individuals aged 16 years and over can self-refer to the RAAM Clinic. Formal referrals are not required, however, they are encouraged. Individuals are seen on a first come, first served basis during clinic hours: Monday-Thursday 2 pm - 5 pm.

Locations & Hours
NorWest Community Health Centres
525 Simpson Street | (807) 626-8478
Hours: Monday to Thursday from 2:00pm–5:00pm
St. Joseph’s Care Group
Currently closed.
What To Expect At The Clinic
A safe, non-judgmental space where individuals receive specialized services and care in a healing environment.
What to Bring
- List of all medications you are currently taking. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamin or mineral supplements and herbal remedies.
- Medications that you need to take. If you take medications during the day, bring them with you.
- Record of any changes. Notes about any changes that you’ve noticed since your last visit.
- A trusted friend or family member. You are welcome to bring a friend or family member. A support person can give you emotional support and can help you make decisions that are right for you. They can also help you gather information, take notes and ask questions.
- List of health care providers. Bring a list of health care providers you have seen in the past and who may have information about your medical needs, lab results that have been completed.
- Questions to ask. Bring a list of questions to your appointment to help you remember everything you want to ask.
When You Arrive
The first person you meet at the RAAM Clinic is the RAAM Coordinator. You will need your Ontario Health Card (OHIP card). If you do not have one, we will support you to get one.
How Long Will Your Appointment Be?
Since we offer walk-in appointments, wait times will vary. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
Your first appointment will take longer. For your first appointment, you may be at the Clinic for 2 hours or more. Follow-up appointments are typically shorter and can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes.
Program Evaluation
Part of our work with you includes understanding whether the RAAM Clinic is making a difference in individual’s lives. You will be given materials to review including additional information d satisfaction surveys. Participation in all aspects of the program evaluation is completely voluntary.
Feel Better, Live Longer, Be Happier