Hamilton paramedics launch new program to combat record number of opioid overdoses
Published December 1, 2021 at 9:52 am
Hamilton has seen a spike in opioid overdoses this year. As a result, local paramedics are introducing a program that will include naloxone kits and opioid overdose prevention education when responding to opioid-related calls.
The Hamilton Paramedic Service says it is responding to an average of three opioid-related overdoses a day.
“Our Paramedics have always played a vital role in Hamilton’s opioid crisis response,” said Michael Sanderson, Chief, Hamilton Paramedic Service. “This program will further enhance the ability of paramedics to help those most at risk of an overdose within our community. We remain committed to delivering the highest quality of care and ensuring the health and well-being of the residents and community, we serve now and into the future.”
Training began in October to prepare all Hamilton paramedics to deliver awareness and prevention education, as well as to distribute the life-saving medication, naloxone. With training now complete, the initiative will go live on Dec. 7.
“I’d like to thank our partners at Hamilton Paramedic Services for all of their support with providing education and naloxone kits in Hamilton,” said Michelle Baird, Director Epidemiology, Wellness and Communicable Disease Control. “Their contribution towards helping to reduce the impact of opioid overdose in the community is invaluable.”
Paramedics have responded to around 850 incidents related to suspected opioid overdoses between January and December. In August 2021, there were 109 opioid overdoses in Hamilton — the highest monthly response in the city recorded to date.
Videos
