Thursday, September 16, 2010

Alberta Metis Gain Health Funding

The Metis have a higher rate of diabetes than any Canadian.
With this good news announcement from the Alberta government
, heart attacks , high blood pressure and other illnesses will be able to be monitored a little more closely.

Metis Nation received $250,000 for health monitoring

by: Government of Alberta | Sep 16th, 2010

A $250,000 grant from the Government of Alberta — as well as an agreement to share information — will enable the Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) to better monitor the health of Métis livin g in Alberta This work will be undertaken by a new public health surveillance unit recently est

ablished by the Métis Nation of Alberta The unit will work in collaboration with Alberta Health and Wellness.

This initiative will enable information to be compiled about the types of health issues and services being used by Métis and to monitor health trends over time The confidentiality and privacy of participants will be protected at all times and Alberta Health and Wellness will not disclose personal information.

“This initiative and commitment of funding will better enable us to understand the health of Mtis and to address their health needs,” said Health and Wellness Minister Gene Zwozdesky. “I look forward to working in partnership with the MNA to develop more effective health policies and programs for Métis living in Alberta.”

“This is an important tool that can help us to improve the health of Métis Albertans,” said Audrey Poitras, President, Métis Nation of Alberta. “If a need or a concern is identified, we can take immediate steps to address the issue. It also enables us to proactively prevent illness and promote wellness among our members.”

The work also supports the goals set out in the longstanding Framework Agreement between the Métis Nation of Alberta and the Government of Alberta. The agreement was established to promote and facilitate the advancement of Métis by working cooperatively to develop and implement mutually acceptable methods of addressing the needs and aspirations of Métis and to preserve their identity and cultural heritage.

“This initiative supports our Framework Agreement with the Métis Nation of Alberta,” said Aboriginal Relations Minister Len Webber. “Enhancing the health and well-being of Métis is a goal we all share and this new health monitoring agreement will help us achieve that.”

The Alberta government has a clear plan for a strong economic recovery An important part of The Way Forward is maintaining support for programs and services Albertans need most, such as health care, education and safe and vibrant communities.

For more information on the plan visit Alberta.ca.

Media inquiries may be directed to:

To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.

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