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 A new Aboriginal Health Strategy document was presented to the Saskatoon Regional Health Authority on May 28, 2010, by Strengthening the Circle – a partnership between Kinistin Saulteaux Nation, the Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI) and the Saskatoon Health Region.
Following a pipe ceremony in April 2008, the partnership began building relationships with the Aboriginal community, seeking feedback about health services provided by the Saskatoon Health Region.
First Nations and Métis Elders shared their wisdom and guidance throughout this process, including the “Gathering Wisdom Elders” forum held on November 28 and 29, 2009. Between January and July 2009, Strengthening the Circle conducted 34 community focus groups and received feedback from a total of 671 Aboriginal people.
Participants were asked how the Region can better meet Aboriginal health needs. This resulting strategy is a roadmap for creating a unique “patient-first” experience for Aboriginal people.
Strengthening the Circle was officially completed in March 2010, but the partnership lives on. First Nations and Métis communities and leadership accepted the preliminary directions within the strategy and strongly recommend proceeding with plans to develop an Aboriginal Health Council. The role of the Council is to work collaboratively with Saskatoon Regional Health Authority, Aboriginal communities and other health stakeholders to incorporate the Strategy’s recommendations.
Other recommendations include:
- Recruiting and retaining more Aboriginal employees at all levels throughout the Region, including positions that ensure Aboriginal spiritual and cultural needs are respected;
- Increasing Aboriginal representation on all boards and committees throughout the Region, including the Saskatoon Regional Health Authority;
- Developing an anti-racism strategy; and
- Exploring ways to align traditional healing methods within the current health-care system, etc.
Aboriginal Health Strategy Document
The Aboriginal Health Strategy is available electronically:
Full Version (PDF - 4.1 MB)
Summary Version (PDF - 1.4 MB)
Hard copies of can be requested by contacting:
- CUMFI – (306) 975-9999
- Kinistin Saulteaux Nation – (306) 878-8188 or
- Saskatoon Health Region Public Health Services – (306) 655-4600
Related Information:
News Release - May 28, 2010
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