SASKATOON — The province's Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions has announced extending its Overdose Outreach Teams program to Saskatoon. This pilot initiative aims to mitigate the risk of overdoses and other drug-related harm for the city's residents.
The OOT program will be supported by the provincial Mental Health and Addictions Ministry for six months. Its primary objectives are to refine the outreach process and broaden its scope. The OOTs were initially launched in December as part of the Saskatchewan Drug Task Force initiative.
Minister Everett Hindley, in charge of the entire health portfolio, is optimistic about the program's early success. He highlighted the importance of building relationships with individuals in Saskatchewan who are struggling with addiction and the potential impact of the OOT in providing them with much-needed support.
The OOT comprises mental health and addictions counsellors from the Saskatchewan Health Authority and primary care paramedics from the Saskatoon Fire Department. Together, they offer short-term counselling services and link those who have experienced overdoses to agencies that can address their long-term needs, such as mental health and addiction services, housing, medical interventions, and financial assistance.
Since its launch, the OOT has assisted over 60 individuals, successfully connecting them with the necessary resources. The teams' client-centred approach and ability to establish trust within the community have been credited for their effectiveness in reaching out to individuals who may have otherwise avoided seeking help.
SHA Mental Health Addiction Services Director Nicole Schumacher said OOT's critical connections within the community and acknowledged the positive impact of their services, prompting many beneficiaries to spread the word about their support.
SFD Chief Morgan Hackl said that drug overdoses affect people from all walks of life in various city areas. He applauded the OOT's success in providing patient-centred care and facilitating connections to support services, highlighting the collaboration with SHA and the Regina Fire and Protective Services.
The pilot program's performance will undergo review upon completion to determine future steps and potential expansions. Saskatchewan has allocated $518 million for mental health and addiction services for 2023-2024, demonstrating a commitment to address these crucial issues.
