Opioid Crisis
Since early 2017, a crisis related to opioid overdoses has been sweeping across Canada. City Council has identified collaborating to address the opioid crisis in their
2018–2022 Strategic Priorities.
Simcoe Muskoka Opioid Strategy
The Simcoe Muskoka Opioid Strategy (SMOS) is a large partnership of agencies, organizations and individuals that is working together to address the crisis of
opioid use and overdose in our region.
Learn more about the actions being taken to address the opioid crisis in our community.
How to get help
The Royal Victoria Hospital has a
Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinic. The RAAM Clinic is for individuals 16 years of age and up whom are struggling with substance use concerns; or for family members seeking personal support around a loved one's addiction. Referrals will also be accepted but not needed. The clinic will allow individuals to be seen by a member of the inter-professional team, as well as the physician or nurse practitioner, to help respond to the individual's treatment needs. Service is short term and appropriate referrals are made for continued client care. The clinic serves all of North Simcoe Muskoka but main offices are currently in Barrie, Orillia and Midland. For enquiries please contact: 705-797-3095.
Safer Substance Use
Safer substance use recognizes that quitting the use of substances may not be realistic for everyone. As a result it means providing people who use drugs with the information and resources they need to prevent overdose and other harms. To learn more, check out the
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit website.
Needle Disposal Bins
On November 4, 2019, City Council approved a
staff report listing several action items aimed at addressing the local opioid crisis and supporting the Simcoe Muskoka Opioid Strategy, including the installation of
needle disposal bins. This is in response to concerns of public safety over discarded needles. Bins are being monitored by an external company and pickup will be determined on an as needed basis for each location:
- Berczy Street Park
- Collier Street Parkade (alley on the south side)
- Heritage Park
- Kearsey Park
- Milligan's Pond
- Queen's Park
- Sam Cancilla Park
- Dunlop/Bradford/High Street intersection
Frequently Asked Questions
| Are there resources for talking to kids about opioids? | |
Yes. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit has resources on their
website. |
| Where can I find a needle exchange program? | |
Needle exchange supplies are
provided free of charge and no identifying information is requested. Equipment can be found at all Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit locations and many of our community partner agencies. |
| What are the health effects of opioid use? | |
Opioids have the potential for problematic use because they can produce euphoria (feeling high).Visit the Government of Canada website to see a list of health effects (short-term and long-term). |