A new support line will help Indigenous patients navigate the health system in the Alberta Health Services (AHS) south zone.
The line is staffed by Indigenous Health Link staff and is available weekdays from noon to 8 p.m. People can call 1-844-944-4744 at any point in their healthcare journey to get help accessing culturally appropriate care and support, and get questions answered, according to AHS.
“The Indigenous Support Line is creating a brave space where our people can speak their truth, a place where they can feel supported asking for guidance and help navigating a complex healthcare system,” says Casey Eagle Speaker, Co-Chair of the AHS Wisdom Council.
A similar support line was launched in the AHS north zone last summer and officials say since then, staff have taken more than 2,000 calls. AHS notes all those who used the service and completed a follow-up survey said they felt respected and supported by the person who assisted them. More than 97 per cent of respondents said they would use the service again and would recommend it to family and friends.
“The support line connects individuals with someone who listens with patience, spirituality, acceptance, caring and empathy,” says Wisdom Council co-chair Cheryl Sheldon. “Those phone conversations build a deeper understanding of the difficulties Indigenous clients face and it makes a difference, it matters to them, and they feel like they matter to AHS.”
The AHS Wisdom Council and Elder Circle played a key role in the creation of the Indigenous Support Line in the North Zone, providing strong guidance and advice to AHS throughout the creation and launch of the project. The council continues to encourage AHS to expand the service across the province to better support Indigenous Peoples in their wellness journey.