Growth expanded access to care through more virtual services, new endocrinology and women’s health clinics, and expanded support for people living with dementia

NEWS RELEASE

MAAMWESYING NORTH SHORE COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES

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Maamwesying North Shore Community Health Services (MNSCHS) held their Annual General Assembly on Oct. 14, in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., promoting their expanded delivery of primary, community support, and mental health care services across northeastern Ontario.

These services are culturally grounded and provided to First Nation and urban Indigenous communities along the North Shore of Lake Huron.

As of March 2026, MNSCHS provided primary care to more than 5,300 attached relatives across 11 First Nation communities and the urban Indigenous population in Sault Ste. Marie. Growth expanded access to care through more virtual services, new endocrinology and women’s health clinics, and expanded support for people living with dementia and those needing palliative care.

“I am proud to reflect on a year marked by growth and commitment to the health and wellness of our communities,” said Carol Eshkakogan, CEO of MNSCHS.

“Our focus remains on delivering high-quality, culturally grounded care and make that more accessible to the communities we serve.”

Throughout the year, MNSCHS integrated Anishinaabe Aadziwin and traditional wellness practices into programs and services. Traditional teachings informed meetings and programming, clients could access referrals to the Traditional Medicine Practitioner, and staff completed cross-cultural training exercises and Indigenous Mental Health First Aid.

Health and wellness programs offered diabetes education, healthy living workshops, oral health initiatives and culturally based activities. MNSCHS also advanced cancer screening, diabetes care and chronic health management, and introduced ways to reduce administrative demands on providers.

Mental wellness and Minobimaadizing programs have expanded access to crisis response, addiction medicine, and culturally safe counselling. The addition of our HART Hubs in Sagamok, Blind River and Sault Ste. Marie, along with the Benbowopka Treatment Centre have broadened our network of wraparound services.

“We are meeting our relatives where they are on their path to wellness,” said Eshkakogan. “We listened to the needs that our communities expressed and created pathways to make sure that care was available.”

MNSCHS worked with First Nation communities and regional health partners to strengthen community-driven care. Research partners and the Senior Patient Advisory Committee also supported Indigenous-led approaches to brain health and dementia.

MNSCHS is now working with our team, Board of Directors and community partners on a new strategic plan for 2026-30, focused on maintaining quality and accessibility while strengthening culturally grounded care.

“As we look toward 2026-30, we plan to build on our progress and shape the future of MNSCHS together,” Eshkakogan said. “I am grateful for the dedication of our team, the wisdom of our Elders, and the trust of our communities. Miigwetch, for your ongoing support and partnership.”

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