Research to Study Affects of Player Tracking System
New study into the gambling habits of Canadians is underway with the announcement that a provincial gaming foundation is to commission a research project on a card based player tracking system.
The Nova Scotia Gaming Foundation (NSGF) announced that the research will examine the impact of the video lottery Informed Player Choice System (IPCS) on problem gamblers.
This is a card based player tracking system that players can use, on a voluntary basis, to self monitor their gaming. Players can trace how much cash they spend on their gambling on a daily, monthly and annual basis.
The system also summarizes the wins and losses of a particular gaming session and, most importantly, gives players the choice to set limits in terms of how long they play and how much they spend.
The IPCS works on a card system although players who don't wish to use the card can simply play without one, thus bypassing the IPCS.
Focal Research Consultants Limited will conduct the important research among two population groups in the province: Those affected by video lottery gambling in Nova Scotia and who are seeking assistance from Addiction Services and those who are at high risk but have not sought help.
The Board Chair of the Nova Scotia Gaming Foundation, Jm MacCormack said: "As an arm's length organization, the NSGF is uniquely positioned to examine objectively the impact of the Video Lottery IPCS program for high risk and problem gambling.
"The NSGF will confer with Addiction Services in the district health authorities and other community stakeholders to address the important public and community health aspect of the research," he added.
