Harm Reduction & Substance Use Information for Health Professionals

People who use drugs may require access to various services, and don’t always disclose their drug use to their primary care provider.

Toronto Public Health encourages health professionals to follow these four recommendations:

More information about the substance use services Toronto Public Health offers can be found in Substance Use Clinical Services.

If you suspect your client is using drugs, give them (and friends/family members) a naloxone kit*, or educate them on where they can get one:

  • Ontario Locator
  • Some Toronto community health centres:
    • Sherbourne Health Centre (416-324-4100)
    • South Riverdale CHC (416-461-1925)
    • Regent Park CHC (416-364-2261)
    • Parkdale CHC (416-537-2455)
    • Queen West CHC (416-703-8480)
  • Toronto Public Health the Works Harm Reductions Services, 416-392-0502

* More information on how to become a naloxone distributor.

  1. Obtain a free take-home naloxone kit. Encourage your family and friends to get a free kit too.
  2. If someone is experiencing an overdose, call 911 and give naloxone. Start chest compressions, give another dose of naloxone if no response and do not leave the person alone.
  3. If you haven’t used for a while, or if you have a new dealer or new supply, start slow, do a tester.
  4. Do not use alone. If using alone, have someone check on you.
  5. If you would like help with your substance use contact a Rapid Access to Addiction Medicine (RAAM) clinic.

Thoughtful conversation between clinicians and patients are encouraged to reduce harms associated with opioid prescribing. Prescribers should consult the recommendations for their specialties, see The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada or The Opioid Wisely campaign.

More Information