Grant: Project Grant

Many Indigenous communities across Canada do not have regular access to diagnostic imaging, such as X-ray, ultrasound, and MRI, and patients must often travel long distances for an imaging exam. Indigenous communities have expressed a desire that additional medical imaging services be available closer to home. Our prior research has demonstrated that telerobotic ultrasound-which enables patients to have an ultrasound exam remotely performed using a robotic arm in their home community-is a culturally safe solution to improve access to ultrasound in Indigenous communities. In addition, recent technological advancements in low-field MRI present an opportunity for MRI to be performed by community assistants with real-time remote support from technologists. Portable, modular pods which house these imaging technologies may be an effective means of providing these medical imaging services in rural and remote First Nations and Métis communities. In this project, we will co-design, co-implement, and co-evaluate portable, modular diagnostic imaging pods comprised of X-ray, telerobotic ultrasound, and MRI in rural and remote Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan to improve culturally responsive access to diagnostic imaging. We will co-evaluate the diagnostic imaging pods based on community-defined outcomes. Wise practices for operationalizing culturally responsive ultrasound and MRI services through diagnostic imaging pods will be identified by each community. Portable, modular diagnostic imaging pods may be a culturally responsive option for Indigenous communities as it eliminates geographic barriers and allows patients to maintain connection with their land, culture, and community. The successful translation of research findings will support Indigenous communities with a scalable solution towards improved access to diagnostic imaging, timely diagnosis, and ultimately improved health and wellness.