Underutilization of Gambling Rehabilitation Services in Quebec
Low Utilization of Specialized Gambling Treatment in Quebec
A study carried out by McGill University in collaboration with the Douglas Research Center, and published in the Journal of Gambling Studies, reveals that individuals struggling with gambling addiction in Quebec seldom make use of the province’s rehabilitation services designed to assist them.
Key Findings from the Research
The research examined factors influencing how often people sought treatment for gambling disorders over a 13-year span. This included looking into different types of gambling activities and usage of health and social services. The team reviewed medical data from 14 of Quebec’s 16 specialized addiction centers and cross-referenced this with health and social service administrative records across the province.
Marie-Josée Fleury, the lead author and a Psychiatry professor at McGill University, highlighted that the study focused on clinical cases instead of a wider population sample. Previous studies estimate that only about 10% of those with gambling problems reach out for specialized treatment services. However, this number could increase up to 50% among individuals with chronic gambling issues.
Despite this, the study found that those with gambling disorders in Quebec accessed rehabilitation services less than twice during the study period, showing a generally low level of engagement with treatment options.
The research also pointed out that the rise of online betting, particularly sports betting via websites and mobile applications, exacerbates the difficulties faced by those with gambling addictions. Interestingly, online gamblers were found to be approximately 15% more likely to use support services than individuals who gamble through other methods.
Although only 10% of study participants identified as online gamblers, this is probably an underrepresentation. Fleury noted that online gamblers often face more severe gambling problems and tend to develop chronic addictions faster than others. Factors like ease of access, privacy, and the lack of restrictions with online gambling facilitate prolonged gambling sessions, unlike traditional land-based venues.
Recommendations for Addressing Gambling Addiction
Fleury recommends broadening the scope of gambling problem screenings across the healthcare system. She suggests emergency departments as critical points for early detection since many patients presenting with alcohol or drug issues may also have undiagnosed gambling problems.
By screening these patients and encouraging early treatment, healthcare providers could guide them to outpatient programs, reducing reliance on emergency services for ongoing care.
There is also a call for enhanced involvement of liaison nurses in emergency and hospital settings to support gambling addiction identification and referral. Family doctors play a vital role but currently do not routinely screen for gambling disorders or frequently refer patients to specialized services, which Fleury points out needs improvement.
The province of Quebec has recently seen a noticeable increase in problematic gambling behaviors, including among younger populations. This surge has prompted experts to advocate for reforms aimed at improving the effectiveness and accessibility of the gambling treatment system in Quebec.
