Kidney Health in Beausoleil First Nation

In 2024, Beausoleil First Nation opened their very own dialysis unit, named Anwaatin Nbi (Calming Waters).  Since Beausoleil is only accessible by ferry, having dialysis available in the community reduces travel and treatment time for each visit from up to eight hours, to just three hours.

Deborah Laramey, Director of the Beausoleil Family Health Centre, says that obtaining an important service such as dialysis is possible for other First Nations. She also discusses how community health outcomes can be impacted by housing, food security and high transportation costs. Nephrologist and researcher Dr. Scott Brimble explains how health care teams need to take the time to learn about a First Nations’ community context and gain trust in order to provide culturally safe care. 

This podcast is produced by the Communications Department at the Anishinabek Nation.

Music: “Brothers” by Wolf Saga and Chippewa Travellers, and “A Very Warm Welcome” by Justin Delorme, licensed by Nagamo Publishing.

Click here to download the transcript: 

https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/6yuh4q7ungatd7r5/Ep20_Kidney_Health_Beausoleil_2025-02-28.pdf

Links and Resources:
Beausoleil Family Health Centre
http://www.bfhc.ca/
The Kidney Foundation of Canada
https://kidney.ca/
Ontario Renal Network
https://www.ontariorenalnetwork.ca/