Land acknowledgement
We pay respect to the diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples who live, work, and contribute to communities across Ontario. We acknowledge that our work and the work of our stakeholders takes place on the traditional territories of many nations, and we are grateful to the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples for hosting us on the land where our Toronto office is located. Our acknowledgement recognizes the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island and supports the spirit of truth and reconciliation. Patient Ombudsman is committed to providing a safer space for Indigenous patients and caregivers to raise their concerns and is working towards building sustainable resolutions.
As a champion for fairness in Ontario’s healthcare system, we recognize that anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare exists.
Part of our responsibility as a crown agency committed to reconciliation, is to recognize the unique status that Indigenous peoples have in Ontario.
Our organization is working to create a space that is culturally safe and strives to establish trust with Indigenous patients, their loved ones and community.
We will continue to update this web-space as additional updates are available.
The Early Resolution Indigenous Specialist is a result of collaboration and feedback with Indigenous Health Leaders and is in line with Joyce’s Principle (a series of recommendations following the tragic and preventable death of Joyce Echaquan)
“Health and social services organizations must facilitate access to an Ombudsman specific to Indigenous people”
Our Early Resolution Indigenous Specialist:
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Works with Indigenous patients and their loved ones who come to Patient Ombudsman with concerns about an unfair healthcare experience in a hospital, long-term care home or as a client of home and community care support services.
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Provides expertise in resolving concerns, participating on investigations, mediating in collaboration with patients and health sector organizations, and achieving fair outcomes for all parties involved.
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Connects with Indigenous health leaders to foster an awareness of the Patient Ombudsman service and to share the stories and issues as they emerge.
If you have a question or would like to connect with Patient Ombudsman’s Early Resolution Indigenous Specialist, please email us at indigenous@patientombudsman.ca or call us at 1-888-321-0339