Overdose Outreach Teams connecting clients to community supports
Regina and Saskatoon Overdose Outreach Teams (OOT) continue to help people reduce their risk of overdose and other drug-related harms. Teams include a counsellor from the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) and a paramedic from Regina or Saskatoon Fire Services.
OOTs unite those at risk with community supports. As one example, a person struggled with an opioid use disorder for several years. After having a dangerous overdose requiring life support, they openly spoke to their family and shared they wanted a change. Hospital staff then connected the family with OOT.
“OOT assisted the client and their family by connecting them with Mental Health and Addiction Services (MHAS) and community organizations that could support their needs,” said Nicole Schumacher, SHA Director of MHAS. “This included referrals to detox and treatment, support to access medication, connections to income assistance services, and counselling.”
OOT services are available through self-referral, and referrals from family and health professionals. Client consent is needed for the service. OOTs are not an emergency response team. If someone is experiencing an overdose and needs urgent assistance, please call 911.
Visit the Government of Saskatchewan website for a referral form or call 306-510-3445 in Regina or 639-471-8335 in Saskatoon. Meet the teams on SHA’s Instagram.
