Lethbridge living May/June 2017 | Page 31

M E R C E D E S FAW N S P H OT O G R A P H Y: COURTESY OF A L B E R TA H E A LT H SERVICES MAKING AN The city of Lethbridge is one of three Canadian cities involved in a five-year international research project that aims to create sustainable models of access to primary health care for vulnerable populations. The team here has taken an innovative approach through its Pop- Up Health and Community Services Events, which are showing some very successful results. IMPACT THERE ARE VULNERABLE P O P U L AT I O N S throughout Canada, and indeed around the world, that have limited to no access to primary health care services, and Lethbridge’s population is no exception. Primary health care services are the broad range of services that are offered beyond traditional and basic health care services, and include mental health care, addictions counselling, housing, fitness, social services, and so much more. Access to these services is important for individuals to lead healthy and balanced lives. According to a 2016 Statistics Canada study, 29 per cent of Canadians reported difficulties accessing health services in their area. “The evidence is becoming very clear that we need to support people in our communities. It’s not just health services, it’s support services, social services, educational supports, dental services– it’s the whole gamut of things that people need to maintain their health,” says Shannon Spenceley, Associate Professor, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge. However, what factors impact how or whether an individual will even seek access to primary health care and services? Past experiences, access to transportation, and even literacy rate can play a part in a person’s decision to access services. And then there are the qualities of the care provider to take into consideration: are staff friendly and welcoming, are there any fees, and how far away is the provider? LETHBRIDGELIVING.COM M AY- J U N 2 0 1 7 31