Supporting culturally safe care for Indigenous patients and families
Northern Health is committed to advancing reconciliation and improving the health care experience for Indigenous patients. As part of this commitment, we’ve launched the Indigenous Patient Self-Identification Initiative at Ksyen Hospital, beginning in the emergency department. When registering for care, patients will be respectfully asked:
“Would you like to self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit)?”
This question is:
- Voluntary
- Confidential
- Does not require documentation
Self-identification helps ensure that no assumptions are made about anyone’s identity and allows Northern Health to offer culturally safe and respectful care.
How we support Indigenous patients
Patients who choose to self-identify may be offered support from our Indigenous Care Team (ICT). The ICT works alongside clinical teams to provide:
- Help understanding diagnoses and treatments
- Support expressing health care needs and wants
- Discharge planning and care coordination
- Cultural advocacy
- Assistance with patient travel
- Comfort and emotional support for patients and families
The ICT also collaborates with the Indigenous Patient Experience Team to address concerns and improve care experiences.
Share your experience
If you or a family member accessed care at the emergency department at Ksyen Hospital, we invite you to share your experience.
Your feedback helps Northern Health understand what’s working well and where we can improve - especially when it comes to providing culturally safe and respectful care for Indigenous patients.
Whether or not you chose to self-identify, your voice matters. Complete the evaluation survey.