Minister of Health Congratulates the Winners of the 2013 National Award of Excellence in Nursing – Three dedicated nurses are recognized during National Nursing Week
May 6, 2013
For immediate release
Fact Sheet : Health Canada’s Eleventh Annual First Nations and Inuit Health Branch Award of Excellence in Nursing
Ottawa – Today, the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health, acknowledged three exceptional nurses for their dedication, initiative and high standard of excellence in service to First Nations and Inuit communities. At the eleventh Annual First Nations and Inuit Health Branch Award of Excellence in Nursing ceremony in Ottawa, the winners were awarded the National Award of Excellence in Nursing for their hard work and commitment within their community.
“Nurses provide a crucial service, delivering direct healthcare services in First Nations and Inuit communities,” said Minister Aglukkaq. “I am honoured to recognize Joan Belanger, Gail Nahmabin and Marie McPherson for improving the health of Aboriginal communities. Advanced knowledge, practical experience and unwavering compassion in the nursing field contribute greatly to the overall health of First Nations and Inuit.”
Nurses in rural and remote communities play an important role. In many cases, nurses are the only front line providers for those receiving health care in remote and isolated communities where doctors are not always available. This comes with tremendous responsibility, and they often encounter unique and difficult challenges in delivering health care.
The Award of Excellence in Nursing was created in 2003 to acknowledge the hard work, devotion and commitment of nurses in First Nation and Inuit communities. Each year, nurses are nominated by their supervisors, peers and fellow community members. Three nurses are selected annually to receive this designation. Award recipients will receive a bursary towards career development training.
For additional information on this year’s award recipients, please view the attached backgrounder.
For more information on nursing employment opportunities in First Nation and Inuit communities, please visit Health Canada’s Nursing Profiles page.
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Media Enquiries:
Health Canada
(613) 957-2983
Cailin Rodgers
Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
Federal Minister of Health
(613) 957-0200
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(613) 957-2991
1-866 225-0709
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