Kirkland Lake, Englehart, and surrounding communities are fortunate to have access to healthcare services on the lands that Indigenous peoples have cared for and called home for thousands of years.

Blanche River Health (BRH) recognizes and respects the stewardship, wisdom, and deep connection of Indigenous peoples to this land.

However, Indigenous peoples across Canada continue to face racism, discrimination, and culturally unsafe healthcare experiences. In response to this, Ontario’s legislation allows and supports the practice of Indigenous ceremonies, even within healthcare settings.

Since 2019, BRH’s Kirkland Lake site has proudly dedicated a room exclusively for Indigenous ceremonies, offering a sacred space for cultural healing. The room is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for patients and their loved ones to access traditional healing practices.

The room is open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4 pm. Outside of those times, visitors gain access by signing out an access badge at Central Registry. To request access to the Indigenous Healing Room, patients or their families can visit or call the Central Registry Department at 1-866-BRH (274)-7774. 

“We are incredibly proud to provide a space where individuals can gather, find comfort, and participate in traditional healing practices,” said Jorge VanSlyke, President and CEO of BRH. “The room is available at any time, and I encourage patients and their families to make use of this special space for healing.”

About Blanche River Health

Blanche River Health (BRH) is a 74-bed hospital corporation with two sites serving the North Eastern Ontario communities of Englehart (26 beds) and Kirkland Lake (48 beds) as well as residents in surrounding areas. Our mission is to make health care work for you. 

BRH values people and continuous improvement and we demonstrate this through accountability, respect, and courage to excel. 

Please direct media inquiries to: Communications and Public Relations

1-866-274-7774 ext. 2144 | communications@blancheriverhealth.ca