Regulatory bodies like the College play a crucial role in addressing historical injustices and ensuring that health care professionals provide equitable care to all patients, particularly Indigenous Peoples.
Historical Accountability and Education
It is imperative for health care professionals to understand the historical context of Indigenous Peoples’ health care experiences. The College must ensure that its registrants are educated about Indigenous history and the lasting impact injustices have on Indigenous communities, fostering a more empathetic and informed approach to care.
Cultural Competency Training
The College has implemented cultural competency training through the Stronger Together: Learning Through Indigenous Perspectives course. Available to both registrants and College staff, the course focuses on increasing knowledge and awareness of Indigenous history and people through reflection and storytelling methods and promotes compassionate and trauma-informed nursing care towards Indigenous peoples in Alberta.
In addition to this, the College's Indigenous Cultural Advisor and Diversity Specialist, Amanda Gould, continues to host cultural professional development sessions in order to provide staff with practical tools and information.
Conclusion
As we conclude this series and reflect on Indigenous History Month, it is evident that understanding and addressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous Peoples, particularly in health care, is crucial for reconciliation. The legacy of Indian hospitals and ongoing health care barriers highlight the need for systemic change. Regulatory bodies like the CRNA play a vital role in fostering equitable health care practices and policies. By learning from the past and committing to cultural competency and sensitivity, we can build a health care system that honours and respects Indigenous communities, paving the way for a more just and inclusive future.