“We Are Bridging That Gap”: Insights from Indigenous Hospital Liaisons for Improving Health Care for Indigenous Patients in Alberta

Abstract

This thesis explores the insights of five Indigenous Hospital Liaisons working in Alberta Health Services hospitals to improve health care for Indigenous patients. Indigenous people in Canada often encounter difficulties and obstacles when accessing health care. Previous studies have described the negative experiences that many Indigenous people encounter within hospitals and other health care facilities. Limited research in Alberta prevents an understanding of context-specific barriers that may exist. Additionally, the insights of Indigenous Hospital Liaisons are a new area of research. These frontline employees work directly with Indigenous patients to help them navigate barriers and ultimately improve their hospital experiences. This research uses a strength-based approach to highlight the dedication that Indigenous Hospital Liaisons have to Indigenous patients and provide a more positive image of Indigenous people. In addition to pointing out barriers they believe are commonly encountered by Indigenous people in Alberta, the Indigenous Hospital Liaisons in this research highlight existing resources that can benefit Indigenous patients. They also share their suggestions for changes that may improve hospital experiences for Indigenous people. The findings of this research provide a welcome contrast to the mass of negative and often deficit-based research that dominates the Indigenous health literature and suggest a more positive and optimistic view of the future of health care for Indigenous people in Alberta. Specific recommendations are provided based upon the findings and suggestions for future research involving Indigenous Hospital Liaisons are discussed.