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A pilot project aiming to help drug users reduce their risks of overdosing is being extended for six months in both Saskatoon and Regina.
According to the Ministry of Health, the Overdose Outreach Teams – which provide short-term counselling and connect those who have recently experienced an overdose with mental health and addictions services, housing, medical intervention and financial support – will be extended for another half-year.
The teams consist of a mental health and addictions counsellor from the Saskatchewan Health Authority, along with a primary care paramedic from the city’s fire department.
The ministry said the teams have supported more than 60 people since the project launched in December.
“The Overdose Outreach Teams have done some promising work building relationships with Saskatchewan residents who are struggling with addictions,” Everett Hindley, Saskatchewan’s minister of mental health and addictions, said in a statement.
“I’ve heard some of the success stories that the teams have had so far and look forward to seeing how they help more people access supports.”
Morgan Hackl, Saskatoon’s fire chief, said overdoses affect people from all walks of life in many different areas. He said the work of the Overdose Outreach Teams is having a positive impact.
“The OOT’s client-centred care and the facilitation of connecting patients to supports has proven to be highly effective. We’re grateful for the opportunity to continue this great work in partnership with Regina Fire and Protective Services and the Saskatchewan Health Authority,” Hackl said in a statement.
The project will be reviewed once the pilot is complete to determine the next steps, the ministry noted.
New clients can be referred to the Overdose Outreach Teams, the ministry said, including family members, police, firefighters, paramedics and health professionals, but client consent is required.
Referral forms and contact information can be found on the provincial government’s website.