A hero lives among us. Clinical Coordinator Elissa Black leads her team at the Fraser North Substance Use Services Access Team with compassion, empathy and kindness. Known for her willingness to help anyone, any time, Elissa is the recipient of a Fraser Health Hero Award.
The Fraser Health Substance Use Services Access Team (SUSAT) tirelessly supports individuals who use substances through outreach, advocacy and system navigation. Their crucial work involves ensuring that individuals who visit Emergency Departments due to risk of toxic drug poisoning or substance use concerns receive coordinated follow-up care within their communities.
Clinical Coordinator Elissa Black understands that thoughtful, kind interactions during these critical moments can make a lasting impact on someone’s life.
“I just want to work with people where they are at and understand their stories. My own lived experience drives my work – the empathy, compassion and understanding,” she reflects.
Learn more about Elissa’s compassionate, person-centred care for clients and staff alike:
From guiding the program since its early beginnings, she has set a high standard for patient care, resulting in more visits to hospitalized patients and fostering relationships that lead to increased follow-up within the community. Whether it’s calling shelters in search of a bed or providing accompaniment support to and from important appointments, she always walks alongside her clients, no matter where they are on their journey.
“Ultimately, I want to be sure I’ve done everything possible for someone. If it’s something I can do, why not?” says Elissa.
Her efforts have led to more community members accessing treatment centres and counselling services.
“She is always going above and beyond for her clients and her staff. She’s a hero – she’s saving a lot of lives,” says Justin Latos, a clinician on the Substance Use Services Access Team.
Although she may not wear a cape, this hero provides the best possible care for her clients. Elissa’s commitment to innovative patient care solutions pushed her to support the development of a unique service: The Substance Use Service Aftercare Team. The first of its kind within Fraser Health, this comprehensive service delivery model offers longitudinal, recovery-focused care for clients who need support with their substance use.
“Elissa is an extraordinary leader. She goes over and beyond each day supporting clients, families and the staff through advocacy, support, supervision and direct care,” says Aman Braich, manager of the Substance Use Services Access Team. “Given the nature of our work, we often face challenging days. Regardless, she always checks on her staff, even after hours, to ensure everyone is doing well.”
Her mindful approach, free of stigma or judgement, towards everyone around her is what makes her the hero of this story.
“I believe in a servant leadership approach, focusing on how I can serve and support my team,” says Elissa.
Congratulations to Elissa Black – recipient of a Fraser Health Hero Award.
