File photo of the Lethbridge Community Health centre. Alberta Health Services has launched an Indigenous Support Line in the South Health Zone. (File photo: LNN)

By Justin Goulet

Alberta Health Services launches South Zone Indigenous support line

May 10, 2023 | 1:08 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – An Indigenous phone support line has been launched in the Alberta Health Services (AHS) South Zone.

The toll-free tool can be reached by calling 1-844-944-4744. AHS said it is operated by Indigenous Health Link staff, who will be available to answer questions and help callers access culturally-appropriate care and support and assist them in navigating the health care system.

The line is open weekdays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. and clients can call at any point in their health care journey with questions and concerns – whether or not they are currently receiving care, about to start care, are in care, or have been discharged from care.

Casey Eagle Speaker, co-chair of the AHS Wisdom Council said, “The Indigenous Support Line is creating a brave space where our people can speak their truth, a place where they can feel supported asking for guidance and help navigating a complex healthcare system.”

The new service for the South Zone is modelled after an Indigenous Support Line that was launched in June 2022 in the AHS North Zone. Since that time, staff have taken more than 2,000 calls. In a follow-up survey with clients who used the line, every respondent said they felt respected and supported by the person who assisted them, and over 97 per cent said they would use the support line again, and would recommend it to family and friends.

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Wisdom Council co-chair Cheryl Sheldon said, “The support line connects individuals with someone who listens with patience, spirituality, acceptance, caring and empathy.”

“Those phone conversations build a deeper understanding of the difficulties Indigenous clients face and it makes a difference, it matters to them, and they feel like they matter to AHS.”

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