One of London's COVID-19 vaccination clinics has opened a dedicated space to help the region's Indigenous residents feel more comfortable when getting the shot.
Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Network (SOAHAC) and the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) worked together to create the culturally aware services at the Western Fair Agriplex vaccination clinic. The space was opened with a sacred tobacco ceremony.
Indigenous people with a scheduled vaccination appointment are encouraged to self-identify with the registration clerk upon arrival to the clinic. They can then choose to have the vaccine administered in the dedicated space by an Indigenous vaccinator.
"This culturally aware program at the Agriplex acknowledges the dire need to vaccinate the region’s Indigenous population and the barriers they may experience in accessing vaccines," said SOAHAC CEO Brian Dokis. “We know that Indigenous peoples may have greater hesitancy about vaccines, given our history with the health-care system. This collaboration is key to allowing us to reach more of the Indigenous population more quickly and will help improve some health outcomes for the communities we serve.”
The province has identified Indigenous adults as a priority group to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Due to disproportionate levels of poverty, adverse living conditions, and racism, Indigenous people experience chronic health conditions at a rate that is between two and ten times higher than the general population. They also tend to be hesitant to seek medical care because of systemic racism and prejudice within the health-care system.
The new dedicated Indigenous vaccination space has so far been well received. Since opening last week, 259 Indigenous individuals have been inoculated.
"Our Indigenous patients are saying that they feel comfortable and acknowledged it's because of the space provided, including access to traditional medicines and the option to speak with a traditional healer after their vaccinations,” said Indigenous vaccinator Laura Mennen. “We are hearing that clinic attendees are now sharing this positive experience with their family and friends, and helping to create awareness and overcome some existing hesitancy.”
Indigenous adults who have not yet booked an appointment or have questions about the vaccine can reach out to one of two system navigators from SOAHAC by calling 1-833-927-0197 or emailing covvax@soahac.on.ca.
