Indigenous Support Line (Alberta Health Services website)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Expansion

AHS launches Indigenous support line in central Alberta to help them navigate the health system

Aug 10, 2023 | 12:57 PM

Announced on International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, Alberta Health Services (AHS) has launched a support line for Indigenous peoples in the Central Zone to help them navigate the health system.

The toll-free Indigenous Support Line can be reached by calling 1-844-944-4744 or by dialing 811, #7. The line is available weekdays from noon to 8 p.m.

AHS states the support line is staffed by Indigenous Health Link staff, who will answer callers’ questions at any point in their healthcare journey, help them access culturally appropriate care and support and assist them with navigating the healthcare system.

“The Indigenous Support Line is creating a brave space where our people can speak their truth, a place where they can feel supported asking for guidance and help navigating a complex healthcare system,” said Casey Eagle Speaker, Co-Chair of the AHS Wisdom Council.

The new service is an expansion of the Indigenous Support Line launched in June 2022 in the AHS North Zone and in May 2023 in South Zone.

Last seen Nov. 28

Missing: Jimmy Eagle, 27, of Maskwacis

9h ago

the situation is dire

Two deaths, possibly from cold exposure, raise alarm amid Red Deer shelter situation and plight of homeless community

Dec 12, 2025

Lace-'Em Up!

Red Deer's outdoor rinks returning for another season

Dec 12, 2025

Since then, they say staff have taken more than 2,000 calls. In a follow-up survey with clients who used the line, AHS states every respondent said they felt respected and supported by the person who assisted them, and more than 97 per cent said they would use the line again and would recommend the line to friends and family.

Officials say the AHS Wisdom Council & Elder Circle played a key role in the creation of the Indigenous Support Line in the North Zone, providing guidance and advice to AHS throughout the creation and launch of the project, and continue to encourage AHS to expand the service across the province to better support Indigenous peoples in their wellness journey.

“The support line connects individuals with someone who listens with patience, spirituality, acceptance, caring and empathy,” said Wisdom Council Co-Chair Cheryl Sheldon. “Those phone conversations build a deeper understanding of the difficulties Indigenous clients face and it makes a difference, it matters to them, and they feel like they matter to AHS.”

All Albertans are being reminded to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. Health Link (811) also remains available 24/7 for non-emergency health-related questions.

“AHS values Indigenous culture and the unique needs of individuals, patients and families and is incorporating traditional culture into the healthcare system,” officials said in a release.

For more information, visit the Indigenous Support Line webpage or watch the video featuring staff from the Indigenous Support Line. AHS states dedicated Indigenous Wellness Core staff are available throughout the province and take into consideration culturally appropriate health services for First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.