West Parry Sound Health Centre has introduced a new role to their care team this year with the addition of an Indigenous Navigator; and is very pleased to introduce Michael Bourke who joined the team this January. His role as Indigenous
Navigator is to provide support and advocacy for Indigenous patients, families, and caregivers.
The health care system is complex, and often difficult for patients and families to navigate. WPSHC recognizes that historic wrongs and negative experiences in health care and other institutional systems can make navigating care options an even more fraught experience for some.
“We know that status quo is not good enough, we are aware that there are inequities that can create barriers to accessing timely care,” said Donald Sanderson, CEO for WPSHC, “it is WPSHC’s hope that this new role will play a small part in repairing trust as we continue down the path towards reconciliation. Every patient and every experience matters. We will continue to seek out ways that we can continue to improve care for everyone.”
Patients who wish to engage with this program will be connected to the Indigenous Navigator as early as their admission. Michael will be able to connect patients with services while they are receiving care in the hospital, including culturally appropriate care options, assist in future planning surrounding care, and connect them to community programs and services. As a Registered Social Worker, Michael will also be providing services such as counselling, psychosocial assessments, patient and family education initiatives and discharge planning.
Guided by the four directions and the Seven Grandfather Teachings, Michael plans to “put patients, families, and communities at the center of my work. Without honouring the connections that exist in this circle the balance needed for healing is lost.”Outside of direct patient care Michael will also work as a conduit for Indigenous communities to ensure their respective voices are represented in program co-development and education initiatives at the health centre. He will act as an advocate for systems change, where inequities are identified. “We are so pleased to have Michael join our team,” said Katie Hogue, CNO of WPSHC. “The experience he brings to the team is so appreciated. We are grateful to be able to
take this step towards improving how we deliver culturally sensitive care.”
