About this webinar

The seminar will present findings from a study that quantifies the impact of the New South Wales Opioid Agonist Treatment Program on suicide prevention from 2001 to 2020. It will delve into how OAT has contributed to a substantial reduction in suicide rates among individuals with opioid use disorder, emphasizing the critical need for tailored interventions that address the specific challenges faced by this population. Through dynamic mathematical modelling, the research will compare suicide rates in scenarios with and without OAT, highlighting the effectiveness of OAT not only in reducing overdose-related deaths but also in enhancing overall public health outcomes. Participants will gain insights into the modelling techniques and implications for future policies and practices in mental health and addiction treatment.

About this speaker

Dr Thomas Santo Jr., BA, MPH, PhD, is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at NDARC, specialising in epidemiology, data linkage, and observational research. His PhD focused on the impact of trauma and mental disorders on opioid dependence. His current research includes a global review of healthcare for people who inject drugs in prisons and a study of post-release outcomes for incarcerated individuals with opioid dependence. Dr Santo collaborates with international organisations like WHO and UNODC and community groups to advance policies that improve health services for marginalised populations in both prison and community settings.