Grant: Project Grant

Ensuring that critically ill Métis Albertans receive respectful and culturally responsive care can improve their intensive care unit (ICU) experiences. This type of care can address the unique health disparities and barriers faced by Métis people. To determine the support needed to improve the ICU experiences of Métis Albertans, we must first understand the experiences of Métis ICU patients and their caregivers. To date, there has been no research in this area. This lack of data has been prioritized by Métis people. In phase one, we (Métis Nation of Alberta and University researchers) will hold gatherings and interviews with Métis Albertans who were admitted to the ICU and their caregivers. Findings will be used to understand their views on supports or services that did or did not assist them during this period. Researchers with perspectives from both Western and Métis worldviews will complete the analysis. In phase two, we will work with community members to develop a survey to identify factors that influence gaps and limitations in existing ICU supports. We will co-produce recommendations for improving ICU experiences to meet the voiced needs of Métis people. The survey will be used in a subsequent population-based study where findings will guide the design of meaningful changes to ICU care. This study is critical in addressing the gap in Métis-specific health research, specifically in critical care and will provide foundational information to improve the experiences of critically ill Métis Albertans.