Original research
by
Perri, Melissa et al
Release Date
2021
Geography
Canada
Language of Resource
English
Full Text Available
Yes
Open Access / OK to Reproduce
Yes
Peer Reviewed
Yes
Objective
During COVID-19 restrictions, remote spotting (e.g., using a telephone, video call, and/or a social media app) emerged to address physical distancing requirements and reduced access to harm reduction and/or sexually transmitted blood borne infection (STBBI’s) prevention services. We explored spotting implementation issues from the perspectives of spotters and spottees.
Findings/Key points
Spotting calls often began with setting an overdose response plan (i.e., when and who to call). Many participants noted that, due to the criminalization of drug use and fear of arrest, they preferred that roommates/friends/family members be called instead of emergency services in case of an overdose. Both spotters and spottees raised concerns about the timeliness of overdose response, particularly in remote and rural settings. Spotting is a novel addition to, but not replacement for, existing harm reduction services.
Design/methods
n=20 semi-structured interviews
Keywords
Overdose
Harm reduction
Policy/Regulatory
Decriminalization/legalization
About PWUD
Barriers and enablers
Illegal drugs
Rural/remote
SCS/OPS
