Blood Tribe Department of Health
What is the current health status of Kainai?
Understanding the health needs of Kainai now and into the future
The purpose of this study will be to support the Blood Tribe Department of Health in collecting data through by surveying a sample of the distributed population
Who can participate
Must be over the age of 18 years old, and a registered member of Kainai Nation.
What will I be asked to do?
Complete a 20-minute survey
If interested check the box to receive information about future focus groups sessions related to the project
Participation is voluntary and confidential. https://uleth.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV cTQdCjzYnM4aFFk
Individuals who submit a completed survey will have their name entered in the monthly draw for a chance to win a $250 gift card
To learn more about the study, please contact:
BTDH Dog Safety Tips
The Blood Tribe Department of Health (BTDH) is committed to providing safe and accessible healthcare services for all community members. As part of this commitment, we want to remind clients and families about the importance of dog safety when accessing services, whether at home or in the community
Dogs are part of many families in our community, offering companionship and protection However, even friendly dogs can become protective or nervous around unfamiliar visitors, leading to potential safety concerns for healthcare staff, clients, and community members
For Clients With Dogs At Home:
If you have an appointment with a Home Care Nurse, Community Health Representative, or another BTDH service provider, please ensure your dog is secured in a separate room or fenced area before their arrival. Let staff know if you have a dog ahead of time, especially if your pet is anxious or protective, and if your dog must be present, ensure they are always on a leash and under control
We are excited to officially open up registration for our Annual Kainai Diabetes Walk/Run that takes place on May 7 at the Multi-Purpose Building. This event brings together our community and encourages us to adopt healthier and active lifestyles We welcome all community members to register to walk or run 2km or 5km
For Community Members Accessing BTDH Facilities
If you notice a stray or aggressive dog near a BTDH location, inform staff so the appropriate action can be taken. Resist the urge to give treats and/or food to dogs, no matter how friendly the animal may seem. Avoid approaching a dog that is sleeping, barking, snarling, eating, or caring for puppies. If the dog feels vulnerable, it may fight to protect its territory. Don't run past a dog, as it will naturally want to chase and catch you.
BTDH Board of Directors Update
The Blood Tribe Department of Health is proud to welcome our new Class “B” Board of Directors, Councillors Marcel Weasel Head, Kyla Crow and John Little Bear Councillor Little Bear was previously a Class “A” Director, and due to this change, there is a vacant Board of Director position with an upcoming by-election
Thank you to Maria Russell, Piinaakoyim Tailfeathers and Martin Heavy Head for serving on our Board of Directors during the 2020-2024 term We wish to express our profound gratitude and heartfelt thanks to all three of the outgoing Board Members for their past service on the board, and we look forward to continuing to advance our shared goals in the years to come
Hand Hygiene: A Commitment to Health and Safety
At the Blood Tribe Department of Health (BTDH), we are committed to enhancing the health and safety of our employees, clients, patients, participants, and residents.
Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent infections. Studies show that improving hand hygiene compliance helps reduce healthcare-associated infections, directly impacting patient outcomes and safety. By practicing proper hand hygiene, we reduce the spread of harmful pathogens and ensure a safer environment for everyone at BTDH
Ongoing education is key to improving hand hygiene every fall season Our staff participate in mandatory training sessions, which not only teach the correct techniques but emphasize the importance of consistent compliance to reduce infections
Our hand hygiene program is integral to maintaining our Accreditation status and enhancing infection prevention and control practices. Achieving an 88% attendance rate for education sessions reflects our dedication to meeting high standards of care and client safety.
We are constantly working to improve our hand hygiene practices. Our program compliance rates of attendance is a step toward ensuring BTDH remains a leader in infection prevention and safety Together, we can maintain a culture of care and quality
88% Attendance
We saw an increase of 15% in comparison to last year’s overall rate at 73%
Program
Masking Update
The Blood Tribe Department of Health has removed the masking policy as per recommendation from the Indigenous Services Canada Medical Officer of Health Continuous masking is no longer required for health care workers or health centre staff during direct client care or while engaging with the public
What this means for clients and patients:
We understand that comfort levels vary If you feel more comfortable with your service provider wearing a mask during your appointment, please do not hesitate to let us know Your safety and comfort remain our top priority, and we’re happy to accommodate your request
MMIP Community Dance
On February 14, our Wellness Program teamed up with Blood Tribe Parks & Recreation to organize a community dance in honour of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP)
Medical Transportation requires 48 hour notice (or sooner) for all transportation bookings.
Client must provide all required contact information, including Treaty Number at time of booking For after hour assistance please call Edmonton Referral at: 1-800-514-7106 Other NIHB Contact Information:
1-800-232-7301
Client Feedback Survey
The purpose of this short-survey is to gain feedback on your experience as a client of the Blood Tribe Department of Health. This is an anonymous survey and completely voluntary. Your feedback is important as we are continuously looking for ways to improve the quality and safety of programs and services being offered to meet the needs of our clients
We want to inspire an environment of positivity and kindness for our staff and clients If you would like to send a thank you to any of our BTDH programs, please let your service provider know or email communications@btdh.ca
Survey QR Code
If you wish to take the survey, hover your camera over this image to access the link.
Blood Tribe Emergency Services Dispatch Partnership Event
On February 24, we celebrated an important step in advancing emergency services for the Blood Tribe with the official transition of fire dispatch services to the Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services Public Safety Communications Centre (PSCC)
For years, PSCC has played a crucial role in providing 9-1-1 call-taking services for our community, ensuring that emergency calls are directed appropriately.
Now, with PSCC also handling fire dispatch for Blood Tribe Emergency Services (BTES), we are further strengthening our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies
“The Blood Tribe is pleased to work with the PSCC,” says Travis Coleman, Fire Chief with BTES “This collaboration has already improved our department’s communication capabilities internally and with our mutual aid agencies ”
“This partnership between the Blood Tribe and PSCC represents a step forward in enhancing the safety and wellbeing of our community,” says Derrick Fox, CEO of the Blood Tribe Department of Health. “This will help support faster and more coordinated responses to emergencies.”
This is not just an operational improvement it is a commitment to our people, our families, and our future.
Blood Tribe New Year’s Baby
On January 15, the Community Health Team proudly celebrated the arrival of Inaya Summer Small Eyes, the Blood Tribe 2025 New Year's Baby!
Born on January 1, 2025, at 8:18 p m , Inaya weighed 7 lbs 7 oz Her proud parents are Chezney Small Eyes and Chase Medicine Crane Baby Inaya was surrounded by love and showered with gifts during the celebration, which also paid tribute to the remarkable legacy of Community Health Nurse Tina Pace
Tina’s Legacy
Tina dedicated nearly 35 years to serving our community. Each year, she organized the celebration and fundraising efforts for baby items and gift cards Additionally, she always personally donated a star blanket for the New Years baby In honour of her life and contributions, Tina's family continued her cherished tradition by donating a beautiful handmade star quilt and other thoughtful gifts to welcome Inaya
We extend our gratitude to our generous partners for their donations and to the Pace family for upholding Tina’s legacy of kindness and care. We send our warm wishes to Inaya and her parents as they embark on their new journey as a family.
Time: 1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m.
Location: Community Health
Immunization is the most effective way to protect against vaccine preventable diseases.
Vaccines are highly effective. Immunization protects both individuals who receive the vaccine and the people with whom they come in contact, especially those who cannot be vaccinated or are incompletely vaccinated due to medical conditions or age. The following vaccines are available for the Blood Tribe:
Influenza: Protects against 4 strains and all individuals 6 months and older are eligible Seniors, infants, and children, and pregnant people are at higher risk
Covid-19: Two MRNA vaccines available this year: Moderna Spikevax KP2 and Pfizer BionNTech vaccines. Product choice will depend on age (refer to IPSM for details)
RSV: Residents of continuing care and supportive living who are 60 years of age and older and community dwelling seniors who are over 75 years qualify for the RSV (abrysvo) vaccine.
Prevnar 20: Indigenous populations are at higher risk of Invasive Pneumococcal Disease (IPD) Prevnar 20 is available to all FN communities and can be offered year round
KIMOHPIPO’TOOKOYI: RESPONSIBILITY TO PRIVACY
SUPPORTING RECOVERY WHILE RESPECTING
PRIVACY: A MESSAGE FROM BRINGING THE SPIRIT HOME (BTSH)
At BTSH, we recognize the importance of family support in the recovery journey of those battling drug and alcohol addiction. Your care and encouragement play a crucial role in their healing. However, we must also emphasize the Kainayssini Traditional Values of our program: Inna’kootsiiyissinii, to have respect for the privacy of our participants.
The BTSH program provides hope and healing for individuals fighting addiction With a dedicated team of Medical Professionals, Paramedics, Counselors, Peer Support Workers, and Elders, each client’s recovery journey is carefully tailored to their unique needs
We understand that participants value their privacy, which is why every aspect of our operations adheres to strict confidentiality guidelines, ensuring that participants feel safe and secure throughout their recovery journey
CAN I SPEAK WITH THE BTSH TEAM TO ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT MY FAMILY MEMBER WHO IS A PARTICIPANT IN DETOX OR PRE-TREATMENT?
As a licensed and accredited facility, Bringing the Spirit Home follows laws and procedures to safeguard the privacy of our participants Without explicit consent from the individual, we cannot collect or share information about their recovery journey This commitment to confidentiality allows participants to focus on their healing without external pressures or concerns about privacy.
When someone struggles with addiction, it often affects the entire family. Communication may decrease as family members cope with the challenges addiction brings, sometimes even keeping the issue a secret from others. Responsibilities may shift, causing additional stress and tension within the household. These dynamics can lead to feelings of loneliness, frustration, fear, anger, shame, or guilt Many family members may also feel hopeless or unsure of how to help
At BTSH, we believe in balancing the vital role of family support with the need to respect each participant’s privacy By ensuring confidentiality, we empower individuals to take control of their recovery in a safe and supportive environment While we may not be able to share information about your loved one’s journey, we encourage families to seek their own support and resources to navigate the challenges that addiction can bring
BTDH Recovery Supports
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use and addictions, it’s important to seek help. Resources are available to provide support and treatment to Blood Tribe members.
Bringing the Spirit Home Admission
How do I access detox services?
Call 403-737-8600 to speak with a Blood Tribe Paramedic Clients will be asked to provide name, Treaty Status Number, substance(s) of misuse and contact information
Clients/participants must call by 8:00 a.m. to check in.
If there are beds available, BTSH will accept the first caller(s) at 8:00 a.m. each day.
I’ve completed detox and want to continue my recovery journey. What’s next?
Call BTSH for treatment center information and applications outside of any detox and/or referral program. We are here to help you. If you require assistance completing applications, please call 403-737-8600 and speak to the Client Case Coordinator or Case Manager.
Day Treatment Program
Thursdays from 8:30 to 4:00 p.m.
This program provides education, awareness and support to those who are suffering with illicit substance and alcohol use disorders. This program is open to family members and caregivers of those suffering from substance use disorders.
Step 1: Call the Wellness Program at 403-737-3883 on Monday and speak with the Receptionist to include your name on participant list for Day Treatment Program (Day Treatment takes place on Thursdays)
Step 2: Once on the participant list, you will receive a phone call on Wednesday (from Wellness Program) to confirm attendance for the current week and if transportation is required
Step 3: If transportation is required, pick up by Wellness Program is on Thursday morning (between 7:30 a m to 8:30 a m)
Important note: Registration for Day Treatment Program is weekly. You must call in each week if you wish to attend.
Men’s and Women’s Support Groups
Bi-Weekly Men’s Support Group
12:00 to 4:00 p.m at the BTDH Wellness Program Centre
Topics include: Colonization/De-Colonization, Addiction/Mental Health, Culture, Anger Management, Roles & Responsibilities, Self-care. Upon completion of the 1-day session participants will receive a certificate and must be in attendance for the whole session.
Lunch provided. For more information or to register call: 403-737-3883 and ask for Kurt Healy or Troy Manyfingers
Bi-Weekly women’s Support Group
12:00 to 4:00 p.m at the BTDH Wellness Program
Open to any women in the community that are seeking support in a group setting for emotional well-being.
Lunch provided. For more information or to register call: 403-737-3883 and ask for Myria Mistaken Chief
Tips to Beat the Winter Blues
During these challenging times, it’s important to listen to our bodies Our bodies are always talking to us, giving us clues about what we need to be healthy These clues might include feeling hungry, thirsty, sad, scared, or even experiencing physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches
By learning to read these clues, we can make choices that support our health and well-being Simple daily habits such as getting enough rest, eating nutritious foods, drinking water, staying clean, brushing our teeth, and exercising are vital for maintaining health Additionally, expressing gratitude each day helps keep our hearts and minds in a positive place
Taking care of our mental and physical health is crucial during the winter months. Here are some simple tips to boost your mood:
Get plenty of natural light
Exercise regularly
Eat mood-boosting foods
Stay hydrated
Socialize and connect with others
Maintain a consistent routine
Take time for relaxation and self-care
Dress warmly and stay cozy
Enjoy seasonal activities.
Seek professional help if needed.
