Grant: Catalyst Grant: Official Language Minority Communities in Health Research

Given the Official Languages Act and the impact of language barriers on health treatment outcomes, it is imperative to understand and address the needs of the Francophone Official Language Minority Communities (OLMCs) across Ontario. Substance use is specifically costly to Canadians, and rates of use have been rising throughout the pandemic. Ensuring optimal substance use disorder treatment across communities, including in Francophone OLMCs, should be a top research priority. The proposed project will explore the needs of addiction providers in Francophone OLMCs through a survey and develop an Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) model in collaboration with these practitioners to address knowledge gaps and create a community of practice. The ECHO model utilizes videoconferencing technology to connect with primary care providers and support them in the management of chronic diseases, thereby reducing geographical barriers and improving access to specialized care within the community. Previous research shows that the ECHO model is effective in building capacity and improving patient outcomes. The results of this project will therefore serve to optimize addiction care for Francophones living in OLMCs across Ontario.