OKANAGAN NATION HEALTH MANDATE
To advocate for Syilx control and management of health, programs and services.
The Okanagan Nation Alliance is committed to improving the health of our People not only for our present community members but for the stelsqilxw – “the People to be”. The Health cluster at the ONA consists of the Health Lead, Health Care Advocates,
Together with the CFYH Services Manager, the Health Lead is building upon the strategic efforts already underway at the Nation level to strengthen our collective health outcomes. The Health Lead collects information from a variety of community sources, such as Band staff and Health Directors, to identify current health priorities to ensure that investments in health always correspond to needs on the ground. Infused with our cultural perspective and traditional knowledge, the updated plan was finished in 2015.
Regular cancer screening helps detect cancer early, often before symptoms appear, improving treatment outcomes and saving lives. Screening is an important part of protecting the health and wellness of individuals, families, and communities.
Health Care Advocates support Syilx Okanagan Nation members in accessing and navigating the healthcare system while helping reduce barriers to care. Grounded in a Syilx and holistic approach, HCAs work alongside community health teams and care providers to support culturally safe and coordinated care.