Overdose Outreach Teams expanding reach
Overdose Outreach Teams (OOTs) in Regina and Saskatoon are making inroads with people who have recently experienced an overdose by connecting them to mental health and addiction services and other community supports. The goal is to reduce the risk for another overdose.
The OOT teams include mental health and addiction services counsellors from the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and paramedics from both Saskatoon Fire Department and Regina Fire and Protective Services. Teams use assertive outreach opportunities through follow-up wellness checks with people that have overdosed and are seeing more people choose to access their services. Referrals come from clients themselves, family and friends, other SHA teams, police, Medavie/Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and community organizations. Key privacy process updates helped advance wellness check outreach work, improve OOT responsiveness, and client access.
Building relationships is key to expanding the reach of the OOT. Making connections in the community helps improve access to housing, financial, and medical services and supports.