The government of Saskatchewan has announced funding for a Virtual Health Hub on Whitecap Dakota First Nation.
The first-of-its kind hub will be Indigenous-led and initially support the delivery of virtual health services for up to 30 communities remotely.
“We are pleased to be contributing to this innovative and groundbreaking facility,” Premier Scott Moe said. “Collaboration between all levels of government with Indigenous communities and other partner organizations ensures that there is no gap in the delivery of health care services between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan.”
At the hub, classes of around 12 students at a time will train and learn the skills to deliver services. Once training is complete, the graduates can set up technologies in rural and remote communities across the province and assist patients, while clinicians and technologists at the hub perform the services remotely.
“The Virtual Health Hub will have a positive impact on Canadians,” Whitecap Dakota First Nation Chief Darcy Bear said. “Providing efficient and effective healthcare services through our public health system to First Nation and rural communities.”
The facility will function in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies.
The Virtual Health Hub is a remote presence technology initiative that will be supported by the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine, Northern Medical Services, and Dr. Ivar Mendez.
The Government of Saskatchewan is providing funding of 1/3 of the total budget for the construction of the new facility.