When an Indigenous patient self-identifies at VGH or LGH, either during the admission process or at any point during their stay, a referral can be made to the Aboriginal Health Patient Experience Team which consists of the Aboriginal Patient Navigator (APN) team and the Indigenous Patient Care Clinicians.
To access the support of the Aboriginal Patient Navigator Program or the Indigenous Patient Care Clinicans, please fill out the referral form below and email or fax it to the program. They are available from 8:30 - 4:30 Monday to Friday.
Aboriginal Health Patient Experience Team Referral Form (PDF)Email: info.aboriginalhealth@vch.ca
Toll-free: 1 (877) 875-1131.
Fax: (604) 675-2552
Aboriginal Patient Navigators work with staff to ensure that First Nations and Aboriginal people have access to high quality, culturally appropriate care. The services provided by APNs include:
Consultation with health care staff on health care planning for patients
Resource/contact information on Indigenous specific resources & referrals for Health care teams
Coaching and consultation on Indigenous patient care
Traditional Cultural support – Smudging, traditional medicines
Consultation with patients and family on health care needs
Indigenous Cultural Safety Education
The IPCCs are experienced registered nurses who bring a variety of expertise. They will support Indigenous patients and families by:
helping to strengthen their understanding of, and confidence in their diagnosis,
prescribed treatment and discharge plans.
They will support staff by: