‘We are the first responders’: overdose response experiences and perspectives among peers in British Columbia

Original research
by
Mamdani, Zahra et al

Release Date

2022

Geography

Canada

Language of Resource

English

Full Text Available

Yes

Open Access / OK to Reproduce

Yes

Peer Reviewed

Yes

Objective

This study aims to understand the role of peers in overdose response settings and their experiences interacting with emergency service providers (ESPs) within the context of the Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act (GSDOA).

Findings/Key points

Peers were often the first to respond to overdoses due to their positioning and saw themselves as having unique expertise in responding to overdoses and connecting with other people who use substances. However, peers perceived several barriers that impacted their ability to respond, including stigmatizing attitudes toward ESPs, lack of recognition, and lack of adequate resources.

Design/methods

Telephone interviews (n=42)

Keywords

Peer/PWLLE program involvement
Overdose
Barriers and enablers
About PWUD