Posted by Lynn Gilbert Courtesy of NS Health

Helping people comes naturally to Katie Lameman, Mi’kmaw Indigenous Patient Navigator (MIPN) in Nova Scotia Health’s Eastern Zone, which includes Cape Breton Island, Antigonish and Guysborough counties.

Her dedication to helping others is profoundly inspired by her mother, Donna Lameman, a retired teacher and education director. Donna exemplifies compassion and kindness, instilling values of support and assistance for those in need.

“It is a cultural value – assisting one another and prioritizing others,” said Katie, a proud member of the Potlotek First Nation who is Mi’kmaq and Plains Cree. She recognizes that this upbringing has significantly shaped her identity and professional outlook.

In her vital role, Katie ensures that Mi’kmaq and Indigenous patients receive the care they need. She is an essential link between these patients and Nova Scotia Health Services. Committed to addressing the cultural and spiritual needs, she ensures that these needs are met during their clinical care.

“I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to Mi’kmaw and Indigenous patients using a two-eyed seeing approach,” said Katie. “I believe that Mi’kmaw patients deserve support from someone who incorporates a trauma-informed perspective, respects their cultural history, and integrates traditional healing and cultural practices into their care plans.”

With her experience as a community h ...