Exciting developments are underway in the fight against hepatitis C in Canada's Prairie provinces, thanks to the launch of an innovative initiative aimed at transforming care access.

The ‘Journeys to Wellness: Prairie Hepatitis C Roadmap’ is the culmination of a comprehensive two-year project led by the Waniska Indigenous Centre, part of the Indigenous Wellness Research Group at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). This vital resource focuses on eradicating hepatitis C as a public health threat specifically in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

What sets this Roadmap apart is its deep-rooted commitment to addressing hepatitis C through the lens of lived experiences and community feedback. It builds upon the Canadian Network on Hepatitis C (CanHepC) Blueprint and highlights the unique challenges faced in these regions. The document not only explores barriers to access but also emphasizes the importance of holistic health approaches that consider social, economic, and personal wellness aspects.

Hepatitis C is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Although curable, many vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected, including Indigenous peoples, immigrants from high-prevalence regions, incarcerated individuals, drug users, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. The Roadmap serves as a critical tool to ensure equitable access to testing, treatment, and ongoing care for these at-risk groups.

Dr. Alexandra King's Advocacy for Innovative Healthcare Strategies

**Dr. Alexandra King**, the project co-chair and an advocate for Indigenous health, expressed urgency in addressing hepatitis C through innovative healthcare strategies. “We are at a critical moment for hepatitis C,” she stated, urging health systems to adopt inclusivity in care. The Roadmap aims to unite stakeholders — healthcare providers, policymakers, and community members — to enhance support for those living with the virus.

Collaborative Insights Led to Actionable Priorities

Throughout its development, over 60 individuals were involved, including Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Holders, healthcare providers, and consumers. Insights gathered during this collaborative process led to the establishment of nine key themes and actionable priorities designed to navigate the complex landscape of hepatitis C care.

Mission to Dismantle Barriers and Foster Cooperation

Former project coordinator, **Saydi Harlton**, emphasized the Roadmap's mission to ensure that no one is overlooked in the healthcare process. "By dismantling barriers and fostering cooperation among all involved, we can pave the way for a healthier future where everyone receives the necessary care," she explained.

A Framework for Hope and Resilience

This groundbreaking Roadmap not only inspires hope for those affected by hepatitis C but also marks a significant shift in how healthcare can be delivered — one that prioritizes collaboration, equity, and community empowerment.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Prairie Provinces' Healthcare