Thank you

As National Indigenous Peoples Month closes, we are thankful to the Elders, presenters and participants who gave of their knowledge and time to teach us this month.

If you missed the live presentations, you can access the recordings here.

In addition to receiving teachings this month, AHS was proud to announce several initiatives to improve access to culturally safe care for Indigenous patients and families.

The Indigenous Support Line expanded to the South Zone after being launched in the North Zone last year. There are plans to expand it to other zones. Indigenous patients, families, communities and care providers can call 1-844-944-4744 to be connected with an Indigenous Listener who can support patients through their healthcare journeys.

Health Link and the Indigenous Wellness Core also collaborated on the launch of translation services in 23 Indigenous languages. Patients can now access care in their own language, which reduces barriers and ensures patients understand and can be involved in their care.

And on National Indigenous Peoples Day, AHS announced the creation of the Patient Access to Indigenous Spiritual Ceremony policy, which ensures Indigenous patients can perform ceremonies consistently inside all AHS facilities.

Thank you to everyone who took part in our events this June. We encourage you to join us again at the end of September for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. (September 30).