Leading Change: Central East Regional Cancer Program Honoured at 2024 Quality and Innovation Awards

The Central East Regional Cancer Program (CE-RCP) has earned two prestigious recognitions at the 17^th Annual Cancer Quality Council of Ontario Quality and Innovation Awards, co-sponsored by the Cancer Quality Council of Ontario and Canadian Cancer Society. The team was awarded the 2024 Indigenous Health Award for their Indigenous Cultural Safety Training, as well as an Honourable Mention in the Equity Award category for the EmpowerHer Breast and Cervical Health Seminar.  

Launched in 2023 and developed in collaboration with Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services, local Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community members, the Indigenous Cultural Safety Training equips staff and physicians with the skills to recognize and dismantle the barriers that prevent Indigenous communities from accessing safe, culturally sensitive care. The training is led by two Indigenous Cultural Knowledge Trainers at Lakeridge Health and incorporates the lived experiences, knowledge, and histories of local Indigenous communities.  

Held in May 2024, the EmpowerHer Breast and Cervical Health Seminar was a partnership with several community partners, including TAIBU Community Health Centre, Durham Community Health Centre, Black Health Alliance, and The Olive Branch of Hope. The event aimed to create a culturally safe environment for African-Caribbean-Black women to access cancer screenings and educational resources. It addressed barriers such as mistrust, cultural differences, and underrepresentation in health care. The event was a resounding success, with 75 per cent of participants receiving screenings. 

“Congratulations to the Indigenous Cancer Program and the Cancer Screening and Prevention team on this incredible recognition,” said Kirsten Burgomaster, Health System Executive, Clinical, Lakeridge Health and Regional Vice President for the Central East Regional Cancer Program.  

“These accolades are a powerful testament to the ongoing dedication and impactful work of these teams within the CE-RCP. Their dedication and tireless efforts continue to make a profound impact that reaches beyond the walls of our organization and the Central East Region is fortunate to benefit from their skills and passion.” 

Kirsten also explained that “these milestones reflect Lakeridge Health’s ongoing focus on creating an inclusive, diverse, equitable, accessible, and anti-racist environment for all. They embody our collective dedication to dismantling systemic racism, and providing health care that truly meets the needs of all communities.” 

Learn more about the Central East Regional Cancer Program here.