Findings from University of Alberta Provides New Data on Antidotes (Barriers To Calling Emergency Services Amongst People Who Use Substances In the Event of Overdose: a Scoping Review).

A scoping review conducted by researchers at the University of Alberta explores the barriers preventing people who use substances from calling emergency services in the event of an overdose. The primary barrier identified was concerns about police involvement and legal repercussions. Other barriers included lack of knowledge or trust in Good Samaritan Laws, concerns about privacy and confidentiality, limited access to cell phones, peer pressure, and identifying as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Colour (BIPOC). The study suggests that increased awareness of Good Samaritan Laws among individuals who use substances and law enforcement, reduced police intervention in overdose cases, and enhanced availability of naloxone could help address these barriers. [Extracted from the article]