NORTH BATTLEFORD — As the Battleford Treaty 6 Health Center (BT6HC) commemorates its 25th anniversary, the organization reflects on its journey and commitment to enhancing health services for First Nations and Indigenous peoples in Northern Saskatchewan.
Established with the primary goal of fostering accessible primary health care, BT6HC continues to prioritize the well-being of its community members.
Director Kent Lindgren, who has been with BT6HC since 2009, emphasized the organization’s mission, stating, “We provide services to our member First Nations, and to First Nation and Indigenous people in the North. That’s a central focus of what we do.”
This commitment to accessibility is rooted in the historical context of Indigenous health care, where communities enjoyed a sense of familiarity in their own health services — an aspect that many still cherish today.
Though the original hospital services were limited, they offered a space where Indigenous people felt understood and comfortable. BT6HC has since evolved, expanding its range of community-based health services designed to support the physical, mental, social and spiritual health of residents from Little Pine, Lucky Man, Sweetgrass and Poundmaker.
“One of our core beliefs is that our community should have input on the services we provide,” Lindgren remarked. “They are as much a part of us as we are a part of them.”
As Lindgren noted, “For me, it’s important that we represent community and who the community is and what they need. We are not doing things without people; we try to walk alongside others and be responsive to their needs.”
Reflecting on the past 25 years, Lindgren expressed enthusiasm for the future, saying, “I’m excited for the next number of years to see what else we can do.”
With a strong foundation rooted in community engagement and responsive care, BT6HC is poised to continue making significant strides in health services for First Nations and Indigenous peoples, ensuring they are supported in their journeys toward wellness.
