Provider-assisted injection in Ontario's supervised consumption services: frequently asked questions

Supervised consumption services (SCS) are an effective intervention to reduce the harms associated with drug prohibition and a toxic drug supply. SCS increase access to health care, promote safer consumption, and prevent overdoses and other health complications. An SCS may support multiple forms of drug consumption, including consumption by injection, inhalation (smoking), oral, and intranasal (snorting). For people who inject drugs, SCS reduce the risk of HIV and hepatitis C, soft tissue infections, venous injuries, sepsis, and overdose-related deaths.

However, a significant number of clients who inject drugs—between 14% to 49%, according to Canadian studies—require more than a safe, hygienic space and access to care and services: they also require assistance with injection. This resource answers some frequently asked questions about legal liability to help SCS providers in Ontario make informed decisions about their practices related to assisted injection.