The PEMA Secretariat, in collaboration with the Eastern Regional Referral Hospital, Mongar conducted an orientation workshop on the Hospital-based SUD Treatment and Care package in Mongar from January 14-19, 2023. The Drangpon of Dzongkhag Court graced the Opening Session of the Orientation Workshop on January 14, 2023 at Druk Zonggar Hotel, Mongar. The Closing Session on January 19, 2023 was attended by the Superintendent of Police and Officer Commanding from Division X; and Medical Superintendent, Drungtsho, and Administrative Officer from the ERRH, Mongar.

The participants for the orientation workshop included the Medical Specialist, GDMO, Psychiatric Nurse, Clinical Counsellor, Menpa, RBP Personnel, Emergency Nurse, Pharmacists, Adolescent-Friendly Health Service Focal, Peer Counsellor, Recovery Support Group member and a Clerk from the Dzongkhag Court.

As a part of the orientation, a day-long consultation workshop was also conducted with the Recovery Support Group members of Mongar on January 13, 2023, to strengthen peer-based recovery support services for people suffering from SUD.

The consultation workshop and the orientation workshop are being organized in preparation towards scaling up the Hospital-based SUD Treatment and Care Services in ERRH, Mongar in February 2023. The Hospital-based SUD Treatment and Care Services, launched by Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen on October 10, 2022 aspires to offer an increased access to evidence-based treatment and provide an effective referral pathway for persons with SUD through a continuum of care approach.