FORT MCMURRAY – An Indigenous Health Clinic is in the works for the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre.
It’s a partnership between the Athabasca Tribal Council and Alberta Health Services.
“Over the next five years, ATC and AHS will be working collaboratively to improve access to quality health care for Indigenous people in northern Alberta,” said Karla Buffalo, CEO of Athabasca Tribal Council.
“This will ensure that the five First Nations served by ATC will directly determine the services they need most. ATC is looking forward to working directly with communities to deliver health care to Indigenous people of the region.”
What services will ultimately be offered in the clinic will be determined following consultation with local First Nations communities.
“This is, at its heart, a conversation with Indigenous communities on the problems they have experienced accessing quality health care,” stated Chief Allan Adam, President of Athabasca Tribal Council.
“Working together with AHS we will ensure that First Nations people receive the services they need while recognizing our traditional culture.”
Murray Crawford, AHS Senior Operating Officer for Fort McMurray, said he looks forward to working with the ATC and engaging with Indigenous residents to plan and design the clinic.
“AHS is committed to continuing to work with our partners and Indigenous communities to improve the care we provide, ensuring culturally safe, accessible healthcare for everyone,” Crawford stated.
“Once open, this clinic will provide accessible, culturally safe health services for First Nations, Métis and Inuit people in the Fort McMurray region.”
