Felix Munger

Research has shown there are notable barriers to calling 9-1-1 during accidental overdose emergencies. Overdose is a significant health and social justice concern, yet Canadian researchers have not explored the existence or prevalence of these systemic obstacles. The current case study examines the barriers to calling 9-1-1 that people face in Southern Ontario when confronted with accidental overdose incidents. The locality of this study is particularly suitable as Wellington County, that is… Show more

Research has shown there are notable barriers to calling 9-1-1 during accidental overdose emergencies. Overdose is a significant health and social justice concern, yet Canadian researchers have not explored the existence or prevalence of these systemic obstacles. The current case study examines the barriers to calling 9-1-1 that people face in Southern Ontario when confronted with accidental overdose incidents. The locality of this study is particularly suitable as Wellington County, that is, Waterloo Region and Guelph are socio-demographically similar to Ontario and Canada. Barriers were assessed by surveying individuals that have or currently use drugs (n=291) and are clients of local methadone clinics or outreach services. Data were explored using frequency tables and then compared using crosstabulations. The findings of this case study suggest there are multiple barriers to calling 9-1-1 during accidental drug overdoses. Similar to previous studies, the most common barriers cited were fear of being arrested (53%), breaching probation or parole (30%), and fear of losing custody of children (24%). Lowering the barriers to calling 9-1-1 may help to forge the path necessary to improved health care and access to resources. Ultimately, and most importantly, lives may be saved. Show less

Collaboration becomes particularly important in the context of complex problems. Global climate disruption may be the biggest such problem but there are many more (like loss of biodiversity and air, land and water pollution). Much has been written on the pursuit of effective collaboration over the past several decades. There are many models and frameworks available to those interested in bettering their collaboration skills – many are quite complex and extensive (including my own). Over the… Show more

Collaboration becomes particularly important in the context of complex problems. Global climate disruption may be the biggest such problem but there are many more (like loss of biodiversity and air, land and water pollution). Much has been written on the pursuit of effective collaboration over the past several decades. There are many models and frameworks available to those interested in bettering their collaboration skills – many are quite complex and extensive (including my own). Over the past 20 years, my professional work and my research on collaborations has taught me that there are 5 important components that need to be understood when doing collaborative work. Show less