Advancing Improvements in Continuity of Cancer Care for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Patients in Rural and Remote Communities
Advancing Improvements in Continuity of Cancer Care for First Nations, Métis and Inuit Patients in Rural and Remote Communities focused on building capacity amongst key First Nations, Métis and cancer care organizations, developing relationships, and enhancing knowledge about the diverse cancer journeys of First Nations and Métis peoples.
Location: British Columbia
Timeline: 2014-2017
Funded partner: First Nations Health Authority (FNHA)
Partners:
- BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres (BCAAFC)
- BC Cancer
- Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC)
- Provincial Health Services Authority – Indigenous Health Programs (BC)
Focus:
- Community engagement events were hosted for patients, families and healthcare providers to engage in dialogue, and provide input into the initiative.
- A surveillance research project was conducted using data linking the First Nations Health Authority Client File with the BC Cancer Registry to understand incidence and survival rates for common cancers.
- Lunch-n-learn sessions were hosted by BC Cancer, for staff at each of the six regional cancer centres, to promote existing cultural safety and humility training.
- First Nations and Métis art was installed in each of the six BC Cancer centres to create a culturally reflective space and to facilitate the building of regional and provincial relationships.
- First Nations and Métis-specific patient navigation support books were developed and disseminated to provide information on local services, gathering support, and navigating the cancer journey.
Outcomes:
- FNHA, along with Métis Nation British Columbia and the BC Cancer committed to developing a joint provincial Indigenous cancer strategy