A smartphone app designed to prevent overdoses has been launched in Thunder Bay.
The CEO of Lifeguard Digital Health Jeff Hardy tells us his product is in use in British Columbia, and has already been effective.
“To date, we have saved 33 lives and have had countless, call it revivals or assistance for help,” explains Hardy.
Once downloaded on a phone, a timer on the app can be set in motion by the opioid user, which sends out an alarm at selected intervals to keep that person alert.
It also provides a direct link to emergency responders if an overdose occurs.
The company CEO points out it was the NorWest Community Health Centres which asked for the overdose prevention app to be brought here.
Centres’ CEO Juanita Lawson explains, “With our commitment to primary health care as well as prevention, the Lifeguard App provides an innovative solution to the ongoing overdose crisis.”
The app is also getting the support of the District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board.
It is available for download from the Apple App Store and from Google Play.
