The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance has a new Indigenous Transition Navigator.
Caroline Miller was announced as the successful candidate to take on the new role on Monday and will start on July 10, 2023.
The new role was developed with guidance from the community and local Indigenous partners. It will support CKHA in its commitment to reconciliation by supporting the health and well-being of Indigenous patients while ensuring services are delivered in a culturally supportive way.
“Caroline brings a breadth of experience, education, training and knowledge to this role – making them the ideal candidate to take on this meaningful work,” Naty Ramirez-Reyes, who is the equity, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism executive lead at CKHA. “The Indigenous Transition Navigator role is an important addition to CKHA and will not only enhance our ability to provide culturally appropriate and safe care but will also cultivate a deeper understanding of Indigenous traditions, values and healing practices.”
Miller is a graduate of the Indigenous Teacher's Education Program at Queen's University and holds a Disability Studies Honours Degree with a Minor in Indigenous Studies from the University of Windsor.
Their professional development includes Indigenous Cultural Competency Training, Anishinabek Nation Health Conference, Indigenous Health Hub Symposium, and Dementia Training.
Miller is a former teacher and educational assistant at BK Walpole Island Elementary School and helped students to reach their full potential while serving as a cultural ambassador, mentor, and advocate.
Their previous work experience also includes Direct Support Professional for the Residential & Passport Program at Community Living Chatham-Kent and Student Researcher and Developer, as well as an Educational Assistant for the Options Program at St. Clair College.
Miller is of Indigenous and European descent and is Anishinaabe from Nipissing First Nation.
“I look forward to working with CKHA’s Indigenous patients and families to ensure high quality and culturally safe care for all," said Miller. "I am eager to work with the hospital’s team of staff, physicians, volunteers and patient advisors, as well as our Chatham-Kent Ontario Health Team partners. Together we can build stronger connections with Indigenous patients and their communities, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes for all."
