Health Sciences North (HSN) and the Northeast Regional Cancer Program are launching a new and engaging animated video series about cancer featuring First Nations family physician Dr. Erin Peltier.
The “Conversations about Cancer” video series is intended for Indigenous people of all ages who want to learn more about what cancer is and why it is so important to get screened.
“Shortly after starting my role as the Regional Indigenous Cancer Lead in 2019, I set out to connect with as many communities and health care providers for Indigenous Peoples in the Northeast catchment area that I could,” says Dr. Peltier. “Community members suggested having videos that could help provide cancer screening information from a trusted health care professional.”
Dr. Peltier and the cancer screening team from the Northeast Regional Cancer Program, in collaboration with HSN Indigenous Health and other partners, went on to develop this unique video series for Indigenous audiences. The series includes five videos that address what cancer is as well as the importance of screening for breast, colorectal, cervical and lung cancer.
“There are unique barriers and inequities in the North that prevent some Indigenous people from getting the care and information they need,” says Deanna Jones-Keeshig, Director for Indigenous Health. “HSN and cancer care staff worked closely with communities to ensure these videos helped close those gaps and that the messages were clear.”
The Northeast Regional Cancer Program screening team works with health care providers, screening sites and directly with First Nation communities across the entire northeast region.
Administrative Director Stephanie Winn is encouraged by the level of detail the team was able to incorporate into the videos from community feedback.
“Active cancer screening unquestionably supports early detection and diagnosis of many types of cancers. These videos will answer questions, alleviate concerns and encourage Indigenous community members to actively seek out cancer screening.”
This project is part of HSN’s strategic plan commitments to be socially accountable and more patient and family focussed.
Regional Vice-President, Cancer Care and Vice-President for Social Accountability, Natalie Aubin says “HSN is committed to being an active participant in bringing health and social service partners together with Indigenous communities. It’s all about improving health outcomes for Indigenous patients and their families.”
You can watch all the videos in Cree, Ojibwe, English and French here- http://www.hsnsudbury.ca/IndigenousCancer