B.C. Addictions Doctor Resigns After Efforts to Establish Overdose Prevention Site in Nanaimo

A Vancouver Island doctor and outspoken advocate for overdose prevention has stepped down from her positions at Island Health, alleging that she was placed on leave as a result of her activism.

Dr. Jess Wilder, a co-founder of Doctors for Safer Drug Policy, submitted her resignation letter on Feb. 5, stating that she was leaving her roles immediately.

Her resignation follows a Jan. 22 administrative leave from her physician lead positions in harm reduction, education, and addiction medicine at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.

In a letter addressed to colleagues, Wilder claimed she was placed on leave pending an investigation into her public advocacy work. However, she confirmed that she would continue providing patient care.

Overdose Prevention Site Controversy

Wilder and her advocacy group, Doctors for Safer Drug Policy, have been vocal in urging the B.C. government to implement overdose prevention measures in hospitals.

In November 2024, the group set up unsanctioned overdose prevention sites at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria to highlight what they call an "unfulfilled promise" to address drug use in medical settings.

Island Health Denies Punitive Action

In response to Wilder’s resignation, Island Health issued a statement confirming it had received her resignation letters but refuted claims that her leave was a form of punishment.

"Administrative leaves are used to ensure that individuals who are party to an investigation continue to be compensated while a fair investigation is underway," the statement read.

The health authority also emphasized that while medical staff are allowed to advocate publicly, they must do so in a way that does not misrepresent Island Health’s official position or compromise patient confidentiality.

Ongoing Debate Over Harm Reduction in Hospitals

Wilder’s resignation underscores a growing debate over harm reduction policies in B.C. hospitals, where advocates argue that safer drug use spaces can help prevent overdose deaths in medical facilities.

With B.C.’s toxic drug crisis continuing to claim lives, her departure raises further questions about the province’s approach to addressing addiction within the healthcare system.