Introduction

In a startling revelation, Saskatchewan has been reported to have triple the national average rate of Hepatitis C, with 19 cases per 100,000 people as of 2023. Alarmed by the absence of a strategic plan to address this urgent health issue in the prairie provinces, the Waniska Indigenous Centre at the University of Saskatchewan took the initiative to develop a comprehensive solution: the Prairie Hepatitis C Roadmap.

Initiative Development

Project co-chairs Carrielynn Lund and Alexandra King dedicated the last two years to engaging directly with a wide array of stakeholders, including individuals with lived experiences of Hepatitis C, healthcare practitioners, and local leaders. Their collaborative efforts aimed to identify effective strategies to enhance treatment, testing, and education regarding Hepatitis C within the community.

Challenges Identified

Highlighting the challenges faced, Lund noted, "We discovered that access to services was incredibly difficult, particularly for those residing beyond urban centers. The situation was even more devastating for individuals in rural areas." This critical insight underscored the urgent need for targeted interventions in underserved communities.

Key Recommendations

The research underscored several key recommendations, including the necessity to reduce stigma associated with Hepatitis C, adopt a holistic and comprehensive approach to treatment, employ more inclusive language, and secure increased governmental funding for support services. According to King, "It’s crucial to empower providers, communities, and local agencies. They are the ones working tirelessly on the ground and can best inform what actions need to be taken to improve service delivery."

Community Engagement

The research phase involved consultations with over 60 individuals, including 25 who either currently live with or have past experiences with Hepatitis C. Lund expressed her appreciation for their contributions, stating, "These individuals were involved every step of the way. Seeing their words reflected in the document was a source of excitement for them."

Call to Action

Waniska Indigenous Centre's roadmap is not just a document; it's a call to action for policymakers. The team hopes that their findings and recommendations will be taken seriously and implemented to create a meaningful impact on the alarming rise of Hepatitis C in the prairie provinces. With collaborative effort and dedicated focus, there's hope that the tide of this public health challenge can be turned, paving the way for healthier communities in the region.