Immersion Course in Aboriginal Health Approved
By 250 News
Thursday, April 27, 2006 11:52 AM
Some students hoping to become doctors, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, dentists or rehab therapists may be able to get some hands on experience on Aboriginal health issues.
Statistics show Aboriginals have a level of health that is below that of the general population in B.C., with much higher rates of arthritis, diabetes and high blood pressure. Stats gathered in 2002 show more than half of the status Indians living off reserve were smokers (51%) and all Aboriginals in B.C. have a life expectancy that is 7.5 years shorter than other British Columbians.
The pilot project announced today, will give some students in the health care professions an opportunity to learn more about cultural differences and how those differences affect the delivery of health care.
Four teams of students will be placed in First Nations communities for four weeks at a time.
The teams will be placed with the Cowichan Band near Duncan, and the Mt. Currie Band near Pemberton.
The Province has committed just under $150 thousand dollars for the pilot project.
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