News & Stories

The Calgary Drop-In Centre has recently implemented changes to enhance the delivery of our Dynamic Overdose Response Program.

January 29, 2025

Statement:

The Calgary Drop-In Centre has recently implemented changes to enhance the delivery of our Dynamic Overdose Response Program. This program supports the DI’s response to substance-related medical emergencies by providing 24-hour coverage through a licensed Practical Nurse, peer support services and onsite paramedics.

Until recently, the DI contracted an external EMS provider for this program. While their services supported the program, relying on an external provider created some gaps in service delivery. To address this, the DI has decided to bring these services in house, enabling further integration of our multidisciplinary care team. There have been no government funding changes associated with this decision, and all funding allocated to the Dynamic Overdose Response Program continues to support its operations.

With EMS services now directly managed by the DI, our care team will continue delivering services through the Dynamic Overdose Response Program while ensuring that EMS support is seamlessly integrated across all of our operations and our other healthcare services, such as our Urban Response Initiative which provides episodic medical care through nursing services offered seven days a week. By incorporating EMS services directly within the DI, we can now offer a consistent level of care across all of our health, mental health, addiction and shelter services, while responding to medical emergencies, including drug poisonings, in an efficient and integrated manner.