Support from the Canadian Medical Association and the Saskatchewan Medical Association means that USask fourth-year medical students will be able to take an Indigenous wellness online course, at no cost.

“The Role of Practitioners in Indigenous Wellness,” was developed by the divisions of Continuing Medical Education and Continuing Education in Rehabilitation Science at the College of Medicine. There was also significant involvement of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations.

According to FSIN Vice Chief David Pratt, “Conceptually, this course is designed to move mainstream health practitioners into a ‘middle ground’ space through increased cultural awareness and understanding-and from this place of understanding, have individuals and work units commit to meaningful, culturally responsive changes that will make their workplace more culturally respectful and safe for Indigenous people.”

The CMA and SMA will provide $25,000 per year for the next three years for a total contribution of $75,000-which means that all members of the USask medical doctor classes of 2021, 2022 and 2023 will be able to take the training. There are about 100 students in each year of the MD program and the course costs $250 per individual.