Sinai Bioethics Grand Rounds | Virtual
Join us for our next Sinai Health Bioethics Grand Rounds with Dr. Mikaela D. Gabriel, an Italian-Mi’kmaq psychologist, scientist, professor and auntie.
Topic
Ars Medicina: Exploring Safety and Safer Strategies for Indigenous Patient Engagement in Primary Care
Speaker
Dr. Mikaela Gabriel PhD, MA | Clinical Psychologist | Canada Research Chair | Unity Health | University of Toronto
Abstract
Indigenous Peoples experience persistent care, service and systemic barriers in accessing primary care services. Current health research has identified that experiences of racism have limited Indigenous Peoples' access to preventative and maintenance care, leading to only seeking support in crisis or emergency scenarios. Compounding colonial health impacts, resulting in homelessness, housing insecurity, and mental health challenges further pose substantial risks to ensuring safety and care for Indigenous Peoples. This presentation will explore current data, research, recommendations, patient experiences and strategies for continuing education and patient support for primary care staff.
Learning objectives
- advance understanding of Indigenous Peoples' sense of unsafety, safety and barriers in health-care systems;
- exploring strategies for cultural representation and inclusion in centres; and
- review of behaviours, skills and supports to foster safety for Indigenous clients, patients and families.
Bio
Dr. Mikaela D. Gabriel is an Italian-Mi’kmaq psychologist, scientist, professor, and auntie. She holds a Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Women and Two-Spirit Mental Health and Homelessness, and is a Research Scientist at Unity Health Toronto across Well Living House and MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions. Her clinical and research efforts seek to provide culturally-centred, trauma-focused, and ceremonially enriched care for Indigenous Peoples in urban settings navigating housing, healing and health.