DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND CORNWALL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL ANNOUNCE NEW INDIGENOUS PATIENT NAVIGATOR
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Department of Health (DOH) and Cornwall Community Hospital (CCH) welcome new Indigenous Patient Navigator, April White. The Indigenous Patient Navigator role was created from a partnership between MCA’s Department of Health and Cornwall Community Hospital to better meet the needs of indigenous patients and clients who are seeking healthcare in CCH.
April has been a registered nurse for more than 37 years and brings a wealth of knowledge to the role, having worked for many years with MCA and CCH. April brings a deep understanding of healthcare to the local indigenous patient population and the unique challenges they face. April will play a vital role in ensuring indigenous patients receive the care they need in a culturally respectful and sensitive manner. April has been serving in her new role since this past spring.
Some of the key responsibilities of April’s role include:
- Serving as a cultural liaison between patients and healthcare providers and bridging cultural gaps.
- Advocating for indigenous patients and ensuring their unique needs and preferences are respected and integrated into their short-term and long-term healthcare goals.
- Offering education to both patients and hospital staff on indigenous health practices, cultural traditions, and the importance of cultural competence in healthcare delivery.
- Assisting patients in accessing community resources, social services, and health programs that can support their health and well-being.
- Providing compassion, emotional support, and empowerment to indigenous patients, helping them navigate the healthcare system with comfort and confidence.
The Department of Health welcomes April to her new role as the Indigenous Patient Navigator and looks forward to the great work and service she will provide to the community. The DOH also expresses sincere gratitude to Cornwall Community Hospital in agreeing to partner in this new position.
