In 2021, there were over 5,350 opioid related deaths in Canada, a 50% increase when compared to 2019 and an unfortunate new record for this country. During the COVID pandemic, we also saw an acceleration of the opioid crisis in many provinces including British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, which all saw record numbers of opioid-related deaths in 2021.

The origins of this crisis are complex, but we know that interwoven with the opioid epidemic is another health care crisis: Suboptimal pain management.

Ontario’s Anesthesiologists aspires for anesthesiologists to have visible and inspiring leadership within the health system and to be an influential voice in all aspects of care provided by anesthesiologists. One of our key goals is to solidify our place as valued and important contributors of the health system and ensure our voice reaches key decision-making tables to benefit both patients and providers.