Four Indigenous patient advocates are coming to several communities, following a debate in the Legislative Assembly on the necessity for medical travel assistance and patient advocates on Dec. 7.
They will be assigned to the communities of Inuvik, Fort Smith, Hay River, Yellowknife and will be responsible for ensuring a “culturally safe patient experience by supporting Indigenous patients in particular… and bridging language barriers,” says Julie Green, minister responsible for Health and Social Services.
Jackie Jacobson, MLA Nunakput says, “we need a health advocate in Inuvik Regional Hospital, to assist our communities to make sure that the people are getting to their appointments.”
“Sometimes residents need treatment, and they don’t get it at the right time.”
He suggests the nurses at Inuvik Regional Hospital are overworked and need the added support as well.
These workers are scheduled to begin early next year.
