As part of Northern Health’s (NH) ongoing commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, we are proud to announce the evolution of the Indigenous Patient Liaison program into the Indigenous Care Team (ICT). This change reflects a broader vision—one that supports First Nations, Métis, and Inuit patients and their families in accessing high-quality, culturally-safe health care services across the North.
Health and healing for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples are deeply holistic—rooted in the understanding that all things are interconnected: land, water, air, animals, individuals, families, and communities. The Indigenous Care Team honours this worldview by helping bridge the gap between western and traditional medicine, ensuring care is delivered in a way that respects and reflects cultural values.
The new name, Indigenous Care Team, encompasses both current and future roles within the program, and reflects expanded access to services across more facilities. To better support patients, Northern Health has introduced new roles:
- Indigenous Health Services Assistants provide practical support such as orientation, communication, and comfort to patients and families.
- Indigenous Care Coordinators work as part of direct care teams, contributing to clinical and social service planning from intake to discharge.
The Indigenous Care Team works in collaboration with key partners such as on-site staff, clinical teams, and managers to develop, implement, and evaluate processes. The ICT also work with Indigenous Patient Experience Advisors in consultation with the Patient Care Quality Office to address the concerns and experiences of Indigenous people within the health care system.
Connect with the Indigenous Care Team for help with:
- Understanding diagnosis and treatments
- Expressing health care needs and wants
- Planning for care and discharge assistance
- Providing cultural advocacy
- Assisting with patient travel
- Offering support and comfort to patients and families
During National Indigenous History Month, and as we approach National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), Northern Health reaffirms its commitment to listening, learning, and walking alongside First Nations, Métis, and Inuit in the spirit of reconciliation and respect.
Learn more and connect with the Indigenous Care Team.
Interested in a career with Northern Health? Check out our Indigenous career opportunities.
To see previously published information on the work of the Indigenous Care Team:
Comments