December 13th, 2024

Province appoints its first advocate solely in charge of dealing with prejudice of Indigenous Peoples in health care

By ANNA SMITH Local Journalism Initiative on December 13, 2024.

asmith@medicinehatnews.com

In a move to combat discrimination felt by Indigenous Peoples when accessing health services, the province has hired its first Indigenous Patient Safety Investigator and Advocate.

“The appointment of an Indigenous Patient Safety Investigator and Advocate is a significant step towards ensuring Indigenous patients have the support they need to advocate for themselves,” said Rick Wilson, minister of Indigenous Relations. “It is crucial that their unique needs are met in a culturally appropriate manner, and having a dedicated advocate will help achieve this goal. Addressing racism in health care is essential, and this appointment will play a vital role in combating these challenges and promoting equity for Indigenous patients.”

Tony Cardinal, a member of Goodfish Lake Cree Nation, has more than 30 years of experience supporting the care and well-being of Indigenous Peoples, and will put this experience to use while working out of the Office of Alberta’s Health Advocates to lead investigations, make suggestions, and address concerns.

Cardinal will be responsible for ensuring any Indigenous health-related complaints of racism or experiences of mistreatment are addressed through the appropriate channels, and Indigenous patients and their families receive support.

“As an Indigenous man … I deeply understand the challenges of sharing my story without prejudice,” said Cardinal. “My hope is to create a safe and inclusive space for open dialogue, free from bias and discrimination, where each Indigenous voice is valued and truly heard.”

Establishing an Indigenous Patient Safety Investigator and Advocate was a recommendation put forward by the Modernizing Primary Health Care Indigenous Advisory Panel.

“We hear often that Indigenous Peoples do not wish to access health care as they experience stereotypes and discrimination,” said Kathy Lepine, Métis Settlement General Council Health Board chair. “This leads to them not receiving the treatment and care they need. Now those patients can feel confident that their experiences are being heard and addressed.”

The Office of the Alberta Health Advocates is available to assist all Albertans at no cost. Advocates can be reached by calling 780-422-1812, or by submitting a concern online.

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