A new position at Bluewater Health Sarnia will serve the health needs of the Indigenous community.
The hospital recently welcomed Nikki George to the role of Indigenous Patient Navigator to assist patients, caregivers and their families in a culturally safe and relevant matter.
George says she hopes to create a positive health care experience for the three local First Nation groups.
"While they're at the hospital, I'll help them maneuver within the health care system. That may just be supporting them whichever way they feel they need support or helping them understand the care and processes that are happening here," says George. "When they're discharged, I'll help them connect back to the community and make sure things are in place for them when they leave the hospital and go home."
A member of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, George has 20 years of experience in health care, and holds a bachelors of science degree in nutrition, and a masters of health studies from Western and Athabasca University.
Chief nursing executive Shannon Landry says George is the perfect fit at Bluewater Health.
"She has been in the health system, she knows the health system and she knows the needs of the Indigenous community," says Landry. "Now she's here within our community learning the health needs within the region."
The position was developed in partnership with members of Aamjiwnaang, Bkejwanong and the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation.
