Newsroom

CCH Welcomes Indigenous Patient Navigator

2023-09-16

As Cornwall Community Hospital (CCH) continues to work on our Strategic Priority of Building a Culture of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and Embracing Reconciliation, we are excited to welcome a dedicated Indigenous Patient Navigator who will help us better meet the needs of our diverse community.

April White joined the team this past spring and brings a deep understanding of healthcare as well as our local Indigenous patient population and the unique challenges faced by these individuals. April has been a Registered Nurse for more than 37 years, having previously worked at the Cornwall General Hospital, Ottawa General Hospital, and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Department of Health in various nursing and management positions for 34 years.

We recognize that navigating the healthcare system can be complex and challenging, especially for Indigenous patients who may have unique cultural, social, and historical considerations. That’s where April plays a vital role in ensuring that our Indigenous patients receive the care they need in a culturally respectful and sensitive manner.

Some of the key responsibilities of her role include:

• Serving as a cultural liaison between patients and healthcare providers, helping to bridge any cultural gaps and fostering understanding between all parties involved in care.
• Advocating for Indigenous patients, ensuring that their unique needs and preferences are respected and integrated into their short and long-term healthcare goals. 
• Offering education to both patients and hospital staff on Indigenous health practices, cultural traditions, and the importance of cultural competence in healthcare delivery.
  
• Assisting patients in accessing community resources, social services and programs that can support their health and wellbeing.
  
• Above all, providing compassion, emotional support, and empowerment to Indigenous patients, helping them navigate the healthcare system with comfort and confidence.

“I am truly honored and excited to be part of the Cornwall Community Hospital team and to serve as the Indigenous Patient Navigator. I am committed to ensuring that our Indigenous patients receive the respect, culturally sensitive care, and hands-on support they deserve,” says April. “Cornwall Hospital's commitment to embracing diversity and providing exceptional care aligns perfectly with my own values, and I look forward to contributing to the health and wellbeing of our Indigenous community members.”

I want to express my deep gratitude to April for joining our CCH Team. As we continue our journey to provide Exceptional Care. Always. to our community, I am truly excited about the positive impact that our Indigenous Patient Navigator will have in ensuring that healthcare at CCH remains inclusive, respectful, and accessible for our patients and families. I believe this is a strong step forward in building stronger bridges of understanding and trust between healthcare providers and Indigenous patients.