First Nations and Métis Relations (FNMR)

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The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency is working to offer culturally safe and appropriate care to First Nations and Métis people.

Department Overview

The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency recognizes the importance of building respectful relationships with First Nations and Métis people in the province. This team, which is a part of the Human Resources department, reflects the Cancer Agency’s commitment to providing culturally appropriate and safe care. The work is guided by the First Nations and Métis Culturally Responsive Advisory Committee (FNMCRAC) which includes staff, partner members, patient family advisors and Elders/Knowledge Keepers.

First Nations and Métis Cancer Strategy

FNMR is working with Indigenous partners to co-create a First Nations and Métis Cancer Strategy in the province. The department welcomes the voices and perspectives of First Nations and Métis people and organizations to guide the development of the cancer strategy. The goal of the strategy is to improve cancer care and prevention for the First Nations and Métis people who live in Saskatchewan. 

Internally, the Agency is working to: 

• Provide culturally responsive learning and education for staff and leaders.
• Guide departments on appropriate and respectful engagement with Indigenous people, partners and communities
• Promote and guide the recruitment and retention of Indigenous employees

Representation Project 2024-25

Through a generous grant from the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer (CPAC), the Agency has taken steps to improve the representation and visibility of First Nations and Métis people in its facilities and materials. This project included photoshoots by five Indigenous photographers, the creation of graphic elements and videos, and the purchase of artwork by Indigenous artists in Saskatchewan. The artwork has been installed in two clinics and patient lodges in Saskatoon and Regina, as well as corporate offices.

Project Work Within the Agency

Upper Digestive Cancer Project

The Upper GI Project is focused on improving the time to diagnosis for patients with suspected upper digestive cancer, starting from their initial visit for suspected cancer-related symptoms. This will be accomplished by providing education to health-care providers, community members and patients, and by developing navigation pathways and supporting processes

Monoclonal Gammopathies (MGs) including Multiple Myeloma in First Nations and Métis Communities

Complex blood cancers often difficult to detect early because symptoms like back pain can be mistaken for common conditions such as aging. Patients in rural, remote, and First Nations and Métis communities in Northern Saskatchewan face barriers including distance, financial challenges, and limited access to specialized care. This project aims to develop a comprehensive MG Care Pathway to address these issues through four main approaches: 

 

• Improving diagnosis and access with a dedicated MG clinic and streamlined referral process.
• Enhancing early detection by providing education and resources for primary care providers and patients.
• Co-designing culturally sensitive support and navigation services for First Nations and Métis patients throughout their journey. 

• And embedding early, coordinated pain and symptom management with palliative care for every patient.

   

The project seeks to improve patient outcomes, reduce health inequities, and ultimately create a scalable model that the Disease Site Group can adapt for broader cancer populations across different cancer types.