The goal of the dashboard is to improve the health status of the people of Ottawa in relation to mental health, addictions, and substance use health by centralizing and showcasing local data to support further action. This tool can be used to identify needs, inform systems and service planning and contribute to building long-term promotion and prevention strategies in the community.
The framework of the dashboard is based on the three goals outlined in the Ottawa Community Action Plan which seek to reduce harms and negative health outcomes, including through emerging harm reduction initiatives, reducing stigma and increasing access and uptake of services by collaborating across the system of care. The fourth goal is built on the understanding that the root causes of ill health are foundational to the positive wellbeing of the community. Also, that some populations face greater barriers to health than others and are underserved by social services.