The opioid crisis is having a devastating impact on individuals, families and communities, warns the region’s medical officer of health. Dr. Ninh Tran notes.
In the course of 12 months (April 2020 to March 2021), there were 43 opioid-related deaths in the Southwestern Public Health coverage area.
That’s 20.5 opioid-related deaths per 100,000 population, that’s higher than the provincial rate of 18.7 deaths per 100,000.
It’s a reminder the opioid crisis is not limited to large urban centres, notes Dr. Tran.
That has prompted the health unit to determine the feasibility of a consumption and treatment centre in the region.
“The health unit has formed an external advisory committee to consult with local figures from various sectors.
“These groups include community agencies, business associations and local chambers of commerce, emergency services, healthcare providers, Indigenous organizations, municipal departments, local politicians, people with lived experience of substance use, and public health alongside its Board of Health.”
Focus groups and interviews are now underway and a survey will be issued later this month inviting public input.
The results of the survey will be made public.
Data collection is expected to be completed in March, with a final report prepared later this year.
Written by Ian McCallum
