What is NEO?

NEO is a third-party web application, developed in the UK, which has been licensed by CAMH for the purpose of collecting data from harm reduction service providers (HRSPs) for the Ontario Harm Reduction Database (ONHRDB). Click here to view a quick video on how NEO works.

What data is collected for the ONHRDB?

CAMH has worked with the MOHLTC to develop a “minimum data set” for the ONHRDB. The minimum data set includes all data elements required to fulfill the reporting requirements of the annual Needle/Syringe Exchange Activity Report, OCHART (Section 6 – Harm reduction outreach), and the Ontario Naloxone Program Quarterly Report.

A summary of the ONHRDB minimum data set provided below.

Can additional data be collected through NEO?

The various types of supplies and kits included for tracking in NEO will be configured to match those distributed by each agency.

However, at this time CAMH is not able to add any other additional data elements to the ONHRDB (e.g. further demographic information, postal code of transaction/exchange, etc.).

What is expected of my agency?

Ontario HRSPs will all be expected to record client service information and supply data set out in the ONHRDB minimum data set through NEO. HRSPs will be expected to use reasonable efforts to ensure that the information uploaded to the ONHRDB and stored as data is accurate, complete and up-to-date.

HRSPs will also need to determine, in accordance with its own internal policies and procedures, which users within the organization has a need to access the ONHRDB to perform his or her responsibilities or assigned duties for the HRSP and ensure such users have undertaken the requisite training to use NEO.

What services will CAMH be providing?

CAMH will host the database and web application NEO, ensuring that the system remains accessible and handling any technical problems that may arise.

CAMH will also configure NEO to best meet the needs of each HRSP (while remaining in the minimum data set), troubleshoot with HRSPs who may have technological challenges submitting data, and help HRSP maintain data quality.

CAMH is responsible for initially training all HRSPs on use of the ONHRDB, as well as developing and maintaining all training and support materials. CAMH must also provide and maintain login credentials to the system for all HRSPs.

CAMH will provide ongoing feedback to each HRSP on the implementation process of the ONHRDB at their site.

Who from my agency should be involved in this implementation?

We suggest that 1-2 staff members take on a leading role at your agency throughout the initial implementation period. These key staff will be trained before other staff members, and should be able to test and assess the system’s fit with your agency’s services.

We also require that at least one staff person be trained to perform the few administrative functions included in NEO, e.g. resetting user passwords, creating new user accounts, etc.

What will the implementation process look like?