Odabiidamagewin
Governance and Leadership
Board of Directors
SLMHC is governed by a Board of 17 directors appointed on the basis of “proportional representation” (as distinct from “skills” based appointments): Two-thirds Anishinaabe, one-third non-Indigenous. This approach was outlined in the Sioux Lookout Four Party Hospital Services Agreement (1997).
In accordance with the amendment to Regulation 965 under the Public Hospitals Act, the SLMHC Board composition was adjusted to include the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Nursing Executive, Chief of Staff, Medical Staff Association (MSA) President, and a Traditional Healer, as non-voting members.
The Board operates successfully as an “integrated board”, versus the nominal, representation, liaison, consultative, advisory, caucus or other similar approaches taken by other hospitals that have a mix of Indigenous and non-Indigenous members.
Ziidonige Niigaaniiwan (Elders’ Advisory Council)
Respect for Elders, their teachings and their counsel is a fundamental value of our First Nation communities. Community Elders were extensively consulted in the development of this program and other key aspects of SLMHC planning, operations and issues management. Advice provided has proven valuable. The board, administration, program managers, staff, caregivers, and most of all the patients and clients, benefit from the Elders’ role and presence.
The Council is comprised of eight Elders, representing each of the Tribal Councils, the Independents and Lac Seul First Nation, plus the four Gaziitodamegewatch (Elders in Residence). The Council members are appointed for two terms by consensus at the bi-annual Elder’s Gathering. The first gathering takes place the same week of the Anishinaabe Giizhigun Celebrations centred around National Indigenous Peoples Day.
The Elders’ Gathering will continue to support issues management, as well as program and policy development. During these gatherings, the Elders are encouraged to visit with the patients and clients at the hospital and hostel, and also with the residents of the William A. George Extended Care Facility.
Board Chair
The SLMHC Board is led by Ms. Kristen Carroll, representing the Southern Communities. Ms. Carroll brings extensive expertise in health governance and is dedicated to ensuring SLMHC delivers culturally responsive and exemplary health services to the population we serve.
Balance on Committees
Similarly, all Board committees have balanced Anishinaabe and non-Indigenous membership.
Traditional Healer
The Traditional Healer serves in a similar advisory capacity to the Chief of Staff and MSA President, contributing specialized knowledge to support Board discussions as a non-voting member. The Traditional Healer also sits on the Quality and Patient Safety Committee of the Board and serves as a member and co-chair of the Ziidonige Niigaaniiwan (Elder’s Advisory Council), providing linkage to the SLMHC Board. In addition, the Traditional Healer supports the ongoing development of the THFMS program.
O’niigaaniitamagen gaawiiji’aach (Special Advisor to the CEO)
Renee Southwind, O’niigaaniitamagen gaawiiji’aach, originally from Lac Seul Lake First Nation supports the SLMHC CEO and leadership with practical cross-cultural advice and communications, issues management, political and other support.