How an Indigenous health centre in Montreal is making care more welcoming

A decade after the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report, Shirley Pien-Bérubé proudly walks through the halls of the Indigenous Health Centre of Tio’tia:ke in Montreal, showcasing the tremendous growth and expansion of services since its opening in 2023.

Pien-Bérubé, a health navigator at the clinic, highlights the numerous offerings now available to patients, including specialized clinics for diabetic foot care, optometry, physiotherapy, mental health, clinical psychology, addiction support, and spiritual healing. As she leads patients through the system and advocates for their needs, she emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and culturally sensitive space for Indigenous individuals seeking care.

The clinic, which provides services in various Indigenous languages such as Inuktitut and Cree, aims to address the health disparities outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. These include gaps in health outcomes, funding for Indigenous healing centers, and recognition of traditional healing practices.

Fay Virginia Desjarlais, the family violence prevention coordinator at the Indigenous Health Centre of Tio’tia:ke, acknowledges the progress made in addressing the needs of Indigenous communities in Montreal. She notes that many Indigenous individuals have faced discrimination and racism within the healthcare system, making it difficult for them to access necessary care.

Despite some advancements, there is still work to be done to fully address the TRC’s calls to action related to health. Data tracking and access to government information remain significant challenges, hindering efforts to identify and close gaps in health outcomes.

In Nunavut, efforts are underway to construct an addictions and trauma treatment center called Aqqusariaq, providing culturally appropriate care in Inuktitut for individuals in the North. Kylie Aglukark, program director with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, emphasizes the importance of building treatment centers in each region of Nunavut to ensure accessibility and cultural relevance.

Dr. Terri Aldred, academic lead with the National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health, acknowledges the progress made with new Indigenous health clinics and healing centers like those in Montreal and Iqaluit. However, she emphasizes the need for sustainable funding and scalability to meet the growing demand for Indigenous-led healthcare services.

As the Indigenous Health Centre of Tio’tia:ke continues to expand its offerings and bridge gaps in healthcare outcomes for Indigenous patients, the hope is that these initiatives will lead to a more equitable and culturally sensitive healthcare system for all Indigenous individuals across Canada.