Indigenous Relatives (Patients) & Families
North Shore Health Network (NSHN) is proud to collaborate with Maamwesying Ontario Health Team (OHT) on the Transitions in Care Initiative. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to improving continuity of care and supporting patients as they move between the hospital and community.
To facilitate access to support during the transition from hospital to home, as well as traditional practices and culturally safe care, all patients registering at NSHN will be asked the voluntary self-identification question:
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"Do you identify as First Nation, Metis, or Inuit?"
Learn More About Self-Identification
Maamwesying OHT Relative and Family Advisory Council
NSHN also supports the Relative and Family Advisory Council (RFAC) and the Declaration Values
Learn more by visiting the Maamwesying OHT Relative and Family Advisory Council webpage
Self-Identification Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can self-identify?
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Individuals with Indigenous ancestry may self-identify.​
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Self-identification is based on how you define your identity. No assumptions are made.​
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This question is voluntary. You have the right to choose if you want to respond or not.
How do I self-identify?
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Inform the Registration Clerk when asked this question during registration.
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If you are not asked but wish to self-identify, notify a member of your care team or the Registration Clerk.
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You can update your answer at any time.
Why self-identify?
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Gives you the option to connect to an Indigenous System Navigator.
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Helps NSHN to provide culturally safe care.
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Supports access to specific programs, services, and funding that may be available to you.
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Provides us with a better understanding of the needs of relatives visiting our hospital, which we can use to identify programs and services that are important to our local communities.
Goals of the Self-Identification Program
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Ensure a smooth transition from hospital to the community.
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Improve the equity, experiences, and outcomes of healthcare delivery for relatives and families. ​
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Strengthen community partnerships and connections with Maamwesying OHT, First Nations communities and Indigenous System Navigators.
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What is an Indigenous Navigator?
Helps you with:
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navigating the complex healthcare system
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your transition from hospital to home
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discharge planning with you and your caregivers
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making referrals for services and supports
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access to traditional or cultural practices
How is my information used?
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NSHN staff add this information to your Electronic Health Record (EHR).
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Staff review the information to help them provide culturally safe care.
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They can also help patients in accessing spiritual or traditional healing practices, and Indigenous-focused services.
Privacy & Confidentiality
Your information is protected under the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA).
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This means that:
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there are restrictions on who has access to your information
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you have rights regarding the use and sharing of your information
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NSHN provides information on the collection, use, and sharing of your information
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you can email PrivacyOffice@nshn.care with any questions.
Visit our Privacy & Confidentiality page for more information