Akwesasronon Appointed to New Job at Cornwall Community Hospital

In a collaborative effort between the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) and Cornwall Community Hospital (CCH), Akwesasronon April White has been appointed as the Indigenous Patient Navigator.

This integral role was jointly initiated by MCA’s DOH and CCH to enhance healthcare experiences for Indigenous individuals at CCH.

April, boasting over 37 years of nursing experience, brings with her a wealth of knowledge from her extensive history of collaboration with MCA and CCH. Her deep insight into the specific healthcare needs of the local Indigenous community, coupled with her understanding of their unique challenges, makes her exceptionally suited for this position. Committed to providing care that respects and honors Indigenous culture and traditions, April has been actively serving in this role since the recent spring.

In her capacity as a patient navigator, White champions the rights of Indigenous patients, serves as a cultural liaison between them and healthcare professionals, and offers guidance on accessing resources, Indigenous health practices, and the importance of cultural sensitivity in healthcare.

Given the increasing concerns raised by Indigenous communities about their treatment in hospitals and the way healthcare professionals interact with Indigenous patients, having an Indigenous Patient Navigator in Cornwall is a reassuring step. These concerns became particularly evident following the tragic death of Joyce Echaquan, an Indigenous woman who passed away while seeking treatment in a Quebec hospital. Her harrowing video, captured moments before her demise, pleading for assistance that sadly didn’t arrive, serves as a poignant reminder.

Looking ahead, the Akwesasne community can find solace in the fact that one of their own will guide them through challenges they might face in healthcare settings, ensuring such incidents don’t recur locally.

Key responsibilities of this role include:

Bridging the gap between healthcare providers and patients, fostering trust through educating professionals on Indigenous cultural practices.

Addressing the unique needs of Indigenous patients and ensuring their health decisions are respected and honored.

Educating staff on the historical and traditional aspects of Indigenous healthcare practices.

Guiding Indigenous patients on available resources, ensuring continuous support.

Prioritizing the teaching of dignity and respect for Indigenous patients to healthcare providers.

Ultimately, the essence of this role is to ensure Indigenous patients are acknowledged, treated with respect, and receive the highest standard of care.

Ultimately, the essence of this role is to ensure Indigenous patients are acknowledged, treated with respect, and receive the highest standard of care.