Emily Bogen’s family suggested she seek help due to her struggles with alcohol, prescription drug addiction, and neurological issues from Lyme disease. Seeking specialized care, they found a Vancouver Island treatment center run by Nomina Wellness. However, their expectations were not met, with promises of tailored treatment plans and top-notch services unfulfilled, despite the hefty cost. The facility faced troubling incidents, including a fatal overdose in 2024.
The experience of the Bogens sheds light on a nationwide issue: privately owned substance use treatment centers in Canada lack sufficient government oversight, endangering patients. A lack of regulations leaves these facilities unchecked, with no standards for operations or staff qualifications.
Shawn Bogen contacted Nomina Wellness in hopes of treating Emily’s conditions, but the reality fell short of expectations. They discovered a stark contrast between the facility’s online portrayal and the actual conditions. Emily received subpar treatment, lacked proper care for Lyme disease, and felt isolated during her stay.
The death of a young man at the facility raised concerns about accountability and proper procedures. Questions arose about the availability of naloxone during the overdose incident. Inconsistencies in accounts regarding naloxone administration further highlighted the lack of oversight in these private facilities.
Lisa Lapointe, a former B.C. chief coroner, advocates for stricter regulations and oversight in the recovery industry to ensure patient safety. The absence of mandatory certification for addiction counselors allows inexperienced individuals to operate in these facilities, posing risks to patients.
The lack of transparency in tracking patient outcomes hampers accountability in the system. The need for regulatory action by provincial health ministries to address these issues is emphasized. Emily Bogen’s unsettling experience underscores the urgency for reforms to protect vulnerable individuals seeking treatment.
