More Indigenous nurses needed to improve health outcomes, says organization
Canadian Nurses Foundation aims to raise $1M for Indigenous nursing education and research
The Canadian Nurses Foundation kicked off a new campaign today, with the aim of raising more than $1 million for Indigenous nursing education and research.
The One Million in One Year campaign, launched at the Wabano Centre in Ottawa, will provide more scholarship opportunities for Indigenous students in nursing.
By funding the training of more Indigenous nurses, who are sensitive to the cultural needs of their communities, CNF believes health outcomes in Indigenous communities can be improved.
- Indigenous doula collective to support mother-centred birth care in B.C.
- Indigenous doctor incorporates traditional practices in modern medicine
Isabelle Wallace is an Indigenous nurse from Madawaska Maliseet First Nation in New Brunswick, and a past recipient of a CNF scholarship.
"Indigenous nurses can be a powerful force within their communities and beyond," said Wallace in a press release.
"They have a unique understanding and background that can make a huge difference, but they need to be empowered first."
Nurses play an important role in the healthcare system, since they are usually the first point of contact for patients. In many remote communities, nurses are often the only health care providers available.
"The recent Truth and Reconciliation Commission highlighted the need for a commitment to improving the health and education of Indigenous people," said CNF CEO Christine Rieck Buckley, in a press release.
"CNF's goal is … to provide opportunities for the sharing of indigenous knowledge, two way learning, and development of best practices."
The Canadian Nurses Foundation has been supporting nurses, and nursing research for over 50 years. In 2009 the organization started a fund for Indigenous nursing students, and to date more than 100 Indigenous nurses have received support from this initiative.
With the increased need for suicide prevention in First Nation communities, the Canadian Nurses Foundation campaign will provide a portion of the money raised to train Indigenous nurses in mental health care.