In the battle against addiction and homelessness, Dr. Monty Ghosh is a transformative force. Driven by a profound commitment to revolutionizing healthcare, he has emerged as a beacon of compassion and innovation, challenging conventional approaches to critical issues such as alcohol and opioid dependency, methamphetamine use, cannabis addiction, and behavioral addictions like gambling, sex, and video gaming.
Through his pioneering initiatives, the physician, researcher, educator, and advocate is not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering lasting change in how healthcare systems support marginalized communities. His work underscores the significant impact every individual can have in advancing a more just and equitable society.
Bridging the Gap: Transforming Addiction Treatment
Dividing his time between Edmonton’s University of Alberta Hospital and Calgary’s Foothills Medical Centre and Rockyview Hospital, Dr. Ghosh's clinical work is just one aspect of his expansive contributions. He’s worked with organizations such as The Alex and Calgary Drop-In Centre to make an enduring impact on marginalized communities. A key initiative Dr. Ghosh has spearheaded is Alberta’s first home detox program, born out of needing more detox facilities. “Patients often had to wait for hours or were turned away. By allowing low-risk individuals to detox at home with proper support, we’ve reduced the pressure on healthcare services while centering care around the patient,” he says. Since its launch, the program has helped over 200 individuals, playing a crucial role during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
NORS: A National Effort to Combat Overdoses
Another catalytic project led by Dr. Ghosh is the National Overdose Response Service (NORS), a lifeline for individuals using substances alone. What began as an idea inspired by a patient’s innovative approach to virtual support has blossomed into a nationwide initiative. The emergency line aims to provide immediate support to people and ensure that they aren't using drugs alone.
Dr. Ghosh is quick to credit Lisa Morris Miller, the CEO of NORS, for driving the program forward. “Lisa’s leadership has been instrumental in fuelling this project. She truly pushed the program with a level of vision and determination that made this service possible,” he acknowledges. Supported by Health Canada and partners like Grand Final Ministries, NORS has saved lives by providing priority assistance to those in crisis.
A Holistic Approach: Healing from Within
Dr. Ghosh's work in addiction treatment is rooted in his understanding that these issues are complex and multifaceted. “Addiction and homelessness are systemic challenges that intersect with justice, social services, and policy,” he explains. “We must address these issues on all fronts, through innovation, education, and advocacy while always grounding our efforts in data and the lived experiences of those affected.”
He draws inspiration from the voices of his patients, who often provide invaluable insights into how care can be improved. “Every initiative I’ve been involved in has stemmed from concerns raised by patients themselves. My role is to amplify their voices and turn their ideas into actionable programs,” he shares.
Compassionate Action: Connecting Healthcare and Community
Beyond treatment, Dr. Ghosh is committed to addressing larger social factors influencing addiction. One of his major contributions is the medical respite program, which offers individuals experiencing homelessness a safe space to recover after hospitalization, bridging the critical gap between medical care and stable housing.
He often references the Rat Park experiment to highlight the importance of community and environment in the recovery process. “The Rat Park study showed that when animals were placed in an enriching environment, addiction rates dropped significantly,” Dr. Ghosh points out. “The same principle applies to humans—when individuals are part of a supportive community, they are more likely to succeed in recovery.”
Dr. Ghosh is also deeply aware of the trauma many individuals face in their journey with addiction. “Many of the people I work with have experienced significant trauma—whether emotional, physical, or sexual. Addressing that trauma with empathy and understanding is key to helping them heal,” he asserts.
Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders
Dr. Ghosh’s commitment to change extends beyond direct care into education. As an assistant professor at both the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary, he ensures that the next generation of healthcare professionals is prepared to tackle the complex issues surrounding addiction and homelessness.
His leadership roles, including serving as president of the Section of Addiction Medicine at the Alberta Medical Association and co-chair of the Canadian Network for the Health and Housing of People Experiencing Homelessness, amplify his advocacy for systemic change on a national scale.
Creating Lasting Change: A Legacy of Collective Action
His message is clear: real change requires a collective effort. “It truly takes a village to create meaningful change. By fostering understanding and providing robust support, we can help individuals rebuild their lives,” he says.
Through relentless work and leadership, the addiction warrior has become a symbol of hope and innovation. His dedication to compassion, community, and equity continues to inspire all of us to believe in the power of collective action and to create a society where everyone has a fair opportunity to thrive.
