4 hours Ago By Bhagyashree Chatterjee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A new medical clinic has opened near Totem Hall to provide health care services to Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) members and their families. The Kal’numet Primary Care Clinic, located at 1221 Chief Billy Drive, began operating at the end of September 2024, addressing the region's primary care access gap. “We are happy to announce the opening of our new medical clinic in the Squamish Valley,” reads a statement from the clinic’s team, which currently operates out of the Health Hub.
The facility aims to offer “culturally safe, family-centred, holistic care,” inspired by the success of its sister clinic in West Vancouver, which has been operating since 2015. Sxwixwtn, Wilson Williams, spokesperson and council member for the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, said in an email to The Squamish Chief that the need for this clinic was clear. “The need for primary care services for Squamish Nation people and their families inspired its creation.
Currently, there is limited access to physicians and [Urgent and Primary Care Centres] UPCCs in the Squamish area.” The Kal’numet Clinic is starting small, with part-time family physicians Dr. Lee Glazier and Dr.
Elizabeth (Liz) Willsey leading the delivery of care. Paige Coutlee provides additional support through nursing services. “We are hopeful to be offering full-time services soon,” the clinic’s team said in a statement on promotional a poster.
“The team is slowly building up services and are hopeful to eventually offer primary care to all Squamish Nation people and their families living in and out of the community,” said Williams. For those looking to join the patient list, the clinic encourages community members to reach out. “If you are a Squamish Nation person or family member in need of a family doctor, please call or email us to be added to the patient list,” the clinic urged in the poster.
The clinic’s services will go beyond physical health. Williams confirmed that mental health support and traditional healing practices are core components of the care provided. “The clinic supports mental health services and traditional healing practices in partnership with the Community Health and Wellness division of Yuustway Health & Wellness,” he said.
Building community connections While the clinic’s partnerships with other health care providers are still in the works, Williams emphasized that building strong local relationships is a priority. “Not yet, but we are looking to build strong relationships with local health partners in Squamish,” he said. Access to health care has been a challenge for the First Nations at large across British Columbia.
A report titled ‘First Nations Population Health and Wellness Agenda (PHWA): First Interim Update’ indicates that avoidable hospitalizations, life expectancy, and chronic conditions like diabetes remain significant issues for First Nations peoples in B.C. The report also shows that mood and anxiety disorders are among the top reported health issues, further highlighting the need for mental health services alongside primary care.
For more information or to be added to the patient list, community members can call 604-898-6771 or email [email protected] . Bhagyashree Chatterjee is The Squamish Chief’s Indigenous affairs reporter. This reporting beat is made possible by the Local Journalism Initiative .
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