New health services for Siksika Nation

Updated: Tue Jun. 02 2009 17:31:42

ctvcalgary.ca

The Siksika Nation, which is about an hour south of Calgary, has a new health services building.

The building houses everything from medical care to dental services to counseling.

The health centre also has telehealth services which means a specialist in Calgary can consult with a doctor and patient on the Siksika Nation using a camera and video screen.

Siksika Health Services also offers a medical transportation program. This allows patients who don't drive to get to their appointments.

"We are very proud of what we have here, we are leaders in healthcare," says Tyler White.

At Siksika Health Services a wholistic approach is being used to combat a list of health challenges facing First Nations people.

Statistically, First Nations and Metis people have a much higher risk of developing type-two diabetes; tuberculosis rates are 10 times higher; and life expectancy is lower.