Michael Whyte, Health Promotion Specialist
The MaRS Opioid Data Challenge
- “MaRS is a launchpad for start-ups, a platform for researchers and a home to innovators.” – MaRS Discovery District, 2019
- In partnership with the Government of Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada
- Tasked individuals and organizations to design an innovative approach to collecting opioid overdose information
The FAST Overdose Alert Platform
- Our design for the MaRS Opioid Data Challenge
- Designed in partnership with the Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy
- Leverages the knowledge of community partners and organizations
Flowchart content:
- Substance use incident/overdose occurs
- Details are shared with community partner
- Emergency services/community partners respond
- Event Details Entered into FAST System
- Email update sent to select partners regarding event details
- Data analyzed by Public Health Staff
- Event details are aggregated and shared back with community partners weekly/quarterly
- Decide, with community partners, whether an alert is needed
Why this system is so important
- Previous sources didn’t allow for timely alerts
- New system collects information in real-time
- Quick and timely response to dynamic shifts in drug supply
- Rapid dissemination of information to alert the community of contaminated/potent supply
Other benefits
- Meaningful insights into a sub-group difficult to reach
- Creates a coordinated community platform for action including police, harm reduction agencies, shelters, public health, etc.
MaRS Challenge – Phase 2
- Awarded a Phase 1 finalist position for our entry (of 5)
- $10,000 Prize
- Entry into Phase 2 of the Challenge
- Phase 2 asks to identify how this system can be adapted for other communities
- We’ve partnered with
- Public Health Agency of Canada, Whitehorse, YT
- North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, ON
- Brant County Health Unit, ON
MaRS Challenge Phase 2
- Up to Two Finalists:
- National Recognition
- $50,000 Prize•Winners announced on June 27th
