First Nations Ombudsman Demands Inquiry into Hospital Security Practices

The First Nations health ombudsman, Diane Lafond, is calling for an independent inquiry into the security practices of the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) following troubling incidents involving First Nations patients. Lafond expressed her concerns about “the growing number of harmful encounters” between First Nations people and hospital security personnel, highlighting that her office is currently handling more than 20 serious complaints related to security incidents in hospitals.

Lafond noted that she had previously received around 300 complaints over an 18-month period regarding various issues within the SHA. She stated, “While some investigations are complete and others ongoing, together they point to a clear and troubling pattern.”

The urgency of this inquiry has been underscored by the recent death of Trevor Dubois, a 36-year-old cancer patient who died following an altercation with security at the Royal University Hospital on January 9, 2024. The Saskatoon police reported that methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and an imitation firearm were discovered in Dubois’ room. However, Dubois’ family has contested this narrative, asserting that the firearm was merely a pink and yellow cigarette holder-lighter.

In response to the incident, the SHA stated that security was called to the room after staff reported a safety concern. During the response, a physical altercation occurred between Dubois and SHA Protective Services Officers, which resulted in him becoming unresponsive.

Lafond is advocating for a prompt, independent inquiry into Dubois’ death that would ensure meaningful involvement from First Nations communities and engage her office in the investigation process. “First Nations people deserve to feel safe, respected, and treated with dignity in hospitals,” she emphasized.

In light of ongoing concerns regarding hospital safety and security, the Saskatchewan government recently announced plans for an independent, third-party review. This review will assess how security is delivered and identify potential improvements, including strengthening partnerships with Indigenous organizations and health system partners.

As part of a pilot project, the SHA recently installed metal detectors in the emergency department entrances of the Royal University Hospital and Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital. Additional detectors are set to be installed this month at the Regina Urgent Care Centre, Battlefords Union Hospital, and Victoria Hospital in Prince Albert.

In the wake of Dubois’ death, Andrew Will, CEO of the Saskatchewan Health Authority, confirmed that the officer involved in the altercation has been suspended pending the outcome of a third-party review into the use of force. Will emphasized that protective service officers undergo more than 100 hours of training on de-escalation techniques and are educated about the Criminal Code and Mental Health Services Act, stating that de-escalation is always the initial response during confrontations.

Concerns about the treatment of Indigenous individuals within healthcare facilities have been voiced by First Nations leaders, including Mark Arcand, Chief of the Saskatoon Tribal Council. At a recent press conference, Arcand remarked on the ongoing mistreatment, stating, “The worst-case scenario happened to Trevor and his family.”

As investigations continue and calls for accountability grow, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and dignity of First Nations patients within the healthcare system.