By Rosalind Russell – Algoma Public Health has launched a community-driven report about the Toxic Drugs in Algoma, recommending more community involvement at all levels.
Acting Medical Officer of Health Dr. John Tuinema says the report features the voices of those with lived in experiences of substance use, to understand how the toxic drug crisis has impacted the region.
He says the most important key finding is that Algoma continues to experience some of the highest opioid-related mortality rates in Ontario, with Sault Ste. Marie ranking among the top municipalities for opioid toxicity deaths.
He adds there are also barriers to care including lengthy waitlists, lack of safe, affordable and transitional housing, transportation, service hours, staffing issues, system navigation, and stigma.
Dr. Tuinema says there are good solutions such as wraparound services that reduce barriers for clients, and he is calling for more community involvement at the grassroots level to engage in helping solve the crisis.
He adds the report was shaped by extensive input from people with lived and living experience, their families, and over 20 community organizations.
The report recommends a whole-of-society approach, including:
Supporting and advocating for evidence-based harm reduction interventions such as distribution of naloxone and sterile drug use equipment, drug checking services, and supervised consumption sites.
Reducing stigma through education, training, and organizational assessments.
Establishing a local network of PWLLE to inform community action and services.
Working closely across sectors to help make mental health and addictions services easier for providers and the public to navigate.
Strengthening protective factors within family, peer, school, and community environments to prevent substance use-related harms.
Algoma Public Health invites residents and organizations to join in collective efforts to address the toxic drug crisis. Visit www.algomapublichealth.com/toxic-drugs-in-algoma to read the full report.
Photo provided
Submit News Tip
