Searching for a Drug Strategy

Searching for a Drug Strategy:

Seeking a response to substance-related harms
and the overdose crisis

May 2024

With overdose deaths on the rise and dangerous substances infiltrating our communities, the need for effective solutions has never been greater. This town hall underscored the complexity of the opioid crisis and the necessity of a multifaceted approach involving prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and enforcement.

With expertise spanning pharmacology, public health, policy, and advocacy, our speakers, hosted by Region of Waterloo Councillor Rob Deutschmann, brought unique perspectives and a wealth of experience to the table. These trailblazers inspired and informed as they shared their insights and strategies for navigating the complex landscape of substance-related challenges.

The speakers collectively advocated for evidence-based strategies, comprehensive care, and collaborative efforts to effectively address the crisis and support affected individuals and communities.

Read the Report

Guest speakers:

Dr. Tara Gomes, Program Director, Ontario Drug Policy Research Network
Shaleesa Ledlie, PhD Candidate, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto
Dr. Geoff Bardwell, Assistant Professor, School of Public Health Sciences at University of Waterloo
Bill Bogart, Author, Retired University Professor and Professor of Law
Dr. Rebecca Haines-Saah, Associate Professor, Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary
Rebecca Penn, Project Manager, National Safer Supply Community of Practice and Substance Use Health Network, London InterCommunity Health Centre
Dr. Paxton Bach, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia
Dan Smith, Director - Fire and Emergency Services/ Fire Chief - Belleville, ON