SLFNHA takes on case management, contact tracing of COVID-19 functions from ISC

Tim Brody - Editor

Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA) has taken over case management and contact tracing of COVID-19 functions from Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).
“The First Nation communities SLFNHA serves can expect coordinated, culturally appropriate services in a timely manner during this COVID-19 pandemic. SLFNHA will be able to respond quickly to minimize the spread of the virus and ensure the protection of its service population.
“This is an important step in moving towards SLFNHA’s vision of a public health system that is First Nations governed and managed. This will require ongoing support and resourcing from both levels of government to address the ongoing inequities faced by First Nations and to fully recognize First Nations jurisdiction and control over health,” a news release issued by SLFNHA stated.
“This is a recognition of the years of hard work and dedication of the SLFNHA team in building up a public health system to prevent infectious diseases” commented SLFNHA Board Chair, John Cutfeet. “This comes at the most critical time as SLFNHA works with its partners to respond during the Covid-19 pandemic in a way that best meets the needs of the communities.”
“Contact tracing is used to identify, assist, and monitor people who have been in close contact with someone who has been infected with a virus, including COVID-19, as these individuals are at a higher risk of becoming infected. Contact tracing can help limit further spread and plays a vital role in protecting communities,” SLFNHA explained.
Established in 1990, SLFNHA represents 31 communities, providing health services and client advocacy.
People can learn more about avoiding infection by visiting SLFNHA’s COVID-19 section,
https://slfnha.com/covid19/resources/avoidinginfection.