Indigenous Navigation Services

Through a collaborative partnership with local First Nations communities, the hospital has implemented Indigenous Navigation Services to enhance the care experience of Indigenous patients and families.

The Indigenous Navigation Services Team assists Indigenous patients, families and caregivers in moving through the hospital system and back to the community in a culturally safe and relevant manner. The roles of Indigenous Patient Navigator, Indigenous Transition Navigator, and Indigenous Substance Use Care Partner were developed in partnership with members from the three local First Nations – Aamjiwnaang First Nation (Chippewas of Sarnia), Bkejwanong (Walpole Island First Nation) and the Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation – and other participants on the regional Indigenous Health Planning Committee.

The Indigenous Navigation Services Team works with healthcare providers in the hospital and community to ensure Indigenous patients and families:

  • Are treated with dignity and respect.
  • Receive care and information that is helpful and culturally relevant.
  • Participate in their care planning.
  • Can ensure their perspective helps shape the future experience of care for others.

Ndayaami maampii (I am here).

Resources:

Indigenous Navigation Services - Handout

Location

Indigenous Patient Navigator
Level 1, Russell Building (Resource Centre)
Bluewater Health
89 Norman Street, Sarnia, Ontario N7T 6S3

Hours & Contact

Indigenous Navigation Services can be reached Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. If you are reaching out after hours or on weekends, please leave a voicemail and the team will get back to you during regular office hours.

Bluewater Health's Indigenous Navigation Services team
From left: Ashley Stone, Doug George, Doy Loulas

Doug George, Indigenous Relations and Navigation Coordinator: (519) 464-4400 ext. 8815
Doy Loulas, Indigenous Transition Navigator: (519) 464-4400 ext. 8355
Ashley Stone, Indigenous Substance Use Care Partner: (519) 464-4400 ext. 8301

Please note: Indigenous Navigation Services are available for outpatient areas upon request.

Maps & Directions

Bluewater Health’s programs and services are distributed across two locations, Bluewater Health in Sarnia and Charlotte Eleanor Englehart Hospital of Bluewater Health in Petrolia. 

Read more

Emergency Care

Bluewater Health’s Emergency Department (ED) provides safe, quality emergency nursing and medical care to patients.

Read more

Mental Health & Addictions Help

If you or a loved one needs support with mental health or addictions.

Read more

Compliments & Concerns

We are always looking for ways to improve, and welcome your questions, comments, suggestions and concerns. If you’re in hospital, please speak to the hospital staff.

Read more

Locate a Patient

Find or contact a patient by telephone, email or e-card.

Read more