Integrated access to cancer screening: expanding access for cervical and colorectal cancer screening in rural and remote Northern Alberta, Canada using a mobile service to bring cancer screening closer to home.

Background: The goal of the Integrated Access to Cancer Screening (IACS) initiative was to help reduce the disparity in cancer screening participation across Alberta by implementing an integrated mobile service delivery model for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screening in rural and remote communities in Northern Alberta, performed by Nurse Practitioners (NPs) that addressed barriers to access. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes and impact the IACS initiative had on the communities and residents of Northern Alberta. This article describes the initiative design, implementation, outcomes, and impact of the initiative.

Recognizing and responding to women experiencing homelessness with gendered and trauma-informed care.

Background: The purpose of this study is to highlight the experiences of women who are often hidden in what we know and understand about homelessness, and to make policy and practice recommendations for women-centred services including adaptations to current housing interventions.

Methods: Three hundred survey interviews were conducted with people experiencing homelessness in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The survey instrument measured socio-demographics, adverse childhood experiences, mental and physical health, and perceived accessibility to resources.

The role of structural violence in family homelessness.

Objective: This study examines the impacts of structural violence on women and how this can influence their trajectory into and their sustainable exits from homelessness.

Methods: The research is qualitative and community-based, including 15 interviews with mothers living in emergency shelters and a group interview with nine professionals. An advisory group was formed through partnership with community services to provide project oversight and guide and interpret the results.

Facilitated access to an integrated model of care for arthritis in an urban Aboriginal population.

Objective: To evaluate a model of care to improve arthritis detection and treatment in an urban Aboriginal population.

Design: Cohort study.

Setting: The Elbow River Healing Lodge in Calgary, Alta.