Release Date
Geography
Language of Resource
Full Text Available
Open Access / OK to Reproduce
Peer Reviewed
Objective
This report presents an overview of the Safer Supply Ottawa program, as well as the results of a Safer Stimulant Supply program evaluation conducted in the spring and summer of 2024.
Findings/Key points
Medical chart data illustrated that 85% of participants reported a decrease in their fentanyl use and 93% noted a decrease in their unregulated stimulant use since starting Safer Supply program. Further, of
those participants who reported experiencing drug overdoses at program intake, 77% reported experiencing no overdoses at their most recent Safer Supply program check-in.
From the interviews, three themes arose, including 1) survival, 2), self-medication, and 3) program engagement. Further, participants provided important messages about Safer Supply for politicians and policy makers.
Design/methods
As part of this evaluation, two projects were completed. First, medical chart data for all current Safer Supply Ottawa participants were collected and analyzed. Second, a mixed methods study involving surveys and interviews with Safer Stimulant Supply program participants was completed.
