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Operational status of mental health, substance use, and problem gambling services: A system‐level snapshot two years into the COVID‐19 pandemic

Author

Listed:
  • Sherry Hao
  • Arthur McLuhan
  • Gary Moloney
  • Nerinderjit Kaur
  • Rahim Moineddin
  • Nigel E. Turner
  • Flora I. Matheson

Abstract

Background The aim of this paper is to provide a system‐level snapshot of the operational status of mental health, substance use, and problem gambling services 2 years into the pandemic in Ontario, Canada, with a specific focus on services that target individuals experiencing vulnerable circumstances (e.g., homelessness and legal issues). Methods We examined data from 6038 publicly funded community services that provide mental health, substance use, and problem gambling services in Ontario. We used descriptive statistics to describe counts and percentages by service type and specialisation of service delivery. We generated cross‐tabulations to analyse the relationship between the service status and service type for each target population group. Results As of March 2022, 38.4% (n = 2321) of services were fully operational, including 36.0% (n = 1492) of mental health, 44.1% (n = 1037) of substance use, and 23.4% (n = 78) of problem gambling services. These service disruptions were also apparent among services tailored to sexual/gender identity (women/girls, men/boys, 2SLGBTQQIA + individuals), individuals with legal issues, with acquired brain injury, and those experiencing homelessness. Conclusion Accessible community‐based mental health, substance use and problem gambling services are critical supports, particularly for communities that have historically contended with higher needs and greater barriers to care relative to the general population. We discuss the public health implications of the findings for the ongoing pandemic response and future emergency preparedness planning for community‐based mental health, substance use and problem gambling services.

Suggested Citation

  • Sherry Hao & Arthur McLuhan & Gary Moloney & Nerinderjit Kaur & Rahim Moineddin & Nigel E. Turner & Flora I. Matheson, 2024. "Operational status of mental health, substance use, and problem gambling services: A system‐level snapshot two years into the COVID‐19 pandemic," International Journal of Health Planning and Management, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 39(4), pages 980-992, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:bla:ijhplm:v:39:y:2024:i:4:p:980-992
    DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3763
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