Prince George resident speaks out about systemic racism in BC healthcare

Young left the hospital without further treatment. He says he still had a broken neck, and he had no one to advocate for him.

We spoke to Young following his claims.

Young says, “it was just too much for me, I didn’t want to deal with it. I didn’t want to deal with people telling me that I was drinking and driving and that I was at fault, so I left.”

Young says “I actually got up, took of my collar, I’d had a broken neck, walked across town and that was that.”

The B.C. Government recently launched an independent investigation into allegations of racism in the healthcare system, back in June. The investigation, led by Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, is ongoing.

People can email, or phone the investigation team with any instances of racism that they have experienced or witnessed for as long as the investigation is open.

Young says, “I’d actually heard about it, but I wasn’t sure. I’m not sure about the specifics.”

We reached out to Northern Health for comment regarding Young’s experience. They issued a statement:

Northern Health strives to support a health care system that is culturally safe for Indigenous people; it is one of our top priorities . We are committed to providing a work and care environment that is characterized by respectful behaviour, and free from discrimination, bullying and harassment. We know that the vast majority of our staff and care providers share this commitment, and provide culturally safe care every day – but we also know there is more work to be done.

Northern Health also said “Patients expressing concerns over allegations of racism, or their own experiences, should contact the NH Patient Care Quality Office.”

Young says he wants to believe that this isn’t systemic racism. He says “hopefully we can work through this together.”

by Vincent Papequash

Prince George resident speaks out about systemic racism in BC healthcare

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