The Alberta Métis Cancer Strategy
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is proud to implement the Alberta Métis Cancer Strategy (AMCS) to improve the cancer journey experiences of Métis Albertans. The AMCS was informed through province-wide community engagement, epidemiological data, a literature review, and an environmental scan.
This work would not be possible without our many system partners. Thank you to the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, the University of Calgary, Cancer Care Alberta, SE Health, Alberta Health Services Screening Programs, Alberta Health, and the CANHelp Working Group at the University of Alberta for their collaboration in improving the cancer experiences of Métis Albertans and their families.
Most importantly, thank you to the Métis Albertans who have participated in our cancer research by sharing their insights, stories, and experiences. Their engagement allows us to deepen our understanding of the interventions needed to improve Métis experiences throughout the cancer journey, from screening and diagnosis through treatment, post-treatment, and beyond.
The AMCS includes four main priorities:
- Engagement
- Culturally Safe Care
- Culturally Meaningful Supports, and
- Supporting Cancer Care
Find out about our ongoing work within each of these priorities below:
Engagement
The engagement of community members and system partners, including cancer agencies, health organizations, and Indigenous governments and organizations. This priority includes collecting Métis-specific data, building meaningful partnerships, and investing in research. Key projects include:
- Cancer Incidence and Mortality Report Among the Métis Population in Alberta (2013-2019)
- Learn about our Cancer Screening Research to better understand Métis Albertans’ cancer screening experiences and improve access to cancer screening.
Culturally Safe Care
Culturally safe care requires implementing structures that promote and support understanding of Métis culture and identity, including a commitment to addressing power imbalances. Key projects include:
- The Métis Cancer Care Course is available to cancer care providers in Alberta and across Canada. This course provides an overview of who Métis people are, including their culture, history, approaches to health and well-being, and cancer care experiences.
- Presentations are given to cancer care professionals across Alberta to share Métis cancer journey experiences and advocate for better access to care, services, resources, and improved experiences.
Culturally Meaningful Supports
Develop and offer culturally meaningful resources to support Métis Albertans at all stages of their cancer journey. Key projects include:
- Cancer Journey Video Supports
- Miyooayaan (Wellness): Metis Guide for Wellness with Cancer
- Cancer Care Resources
- Medical Travel Program
- Cancer Screening Guide
- Cancer Support & Navigation
Supporting Cancer Care
Métis Albertans should be able to find the support they need throughout all stages of their cancer journey. Key projects include:
- Cancer-specific support and system navigation is offered through the Health Department’s Supports and Services Navigation program. Connect with the Support and Services Navigator to learn more about the supports offered.
- Improved access to health information through updating our webpages, sharing resources on social media and the Voyageur Voice newsletter, and through resources such as the Miyooayaan (Wellness): Metis Guide for Wellness with Cancer and the Cancer Screening Guide
Our AMCS will inform future cancer supports and services delivered through the Health Department. We continue to work on projects to improve the cancer journey experiences of Métis Albertans and their families. Stay tuned for updates!
This project is funded by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC).
For more information, contact health@metis.org