The Knowledge Translation Unit (KTU) of the ODPRN focuses on the dissemination of the ODPRN’s activities to various stakeholders including policy-makers, researchers, health care providers, clinicians, patients, and the public, with the goal of making research findings more accessible. The KTU also evaluates the impact of the ODPRN, undertakes media relations, capacity building, and develops knowledge translation strategies for targeted projects.
The KTU is comprised of experts in knowledge translation, health communication, design, and qualitative methods.
Dana Shearer – Knowledge Translation Broker
Dana holds a Master of Arts (Social Gerontology & Health Studies) from McMaster University as well as an undergraduate Honours Bachelor of Arts (Comprehensive Psychology) from Wilfred Laurier University. Dana implements various dissemination strategies to increase awareness of ODPRN research; develops knowledge translation material and communication tools that summarize research findings; and builds stakeholder and patient engagement including managing the ODPRN Citizens’ Panel and the Ontario Opioid Drug Observatory (OODO) Lived Experience Advisory Group.