Grant: Planning and Dissemination Grant - Institute Community Support

This project aims to address the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in accessing culturally safe palliative care, particularly for cancer patients, in the Central East Region of Ontario. By centering the project on local Indigenous Cultural Knowledge and practices, the goal is to collaboratively inform and develop Wise Practices for palliative care delivery. The research will involve an environmental scan, in-person gathering, and collaborative efforts with Indigenous Knowledge Holders, Community Members, and healthcare professionals to decolonize palliative care practices, improve access, and enhance the overall quality of care for Indigenous patients. The project will build trust amongst the involved individuals and communities, promote Indigenous knowledge systems, and potentially better support Indigenous community members and their families in cancer and palliative care. The feasibility is supported by the strong team, including the leadership of the Central East Regional Indigenous Cancer Program, with established relationships in the region and elsewhere, and the involvement of key individuals with expertise in Indigenous approaches to palliative care. At the end of the project, the creation of a report to inform future actions and programs will address the critical need for culturally safe Indigenous palliative care. Afterwards, a core group of key individuals will continue to meet to translate these actions into programs.