The information that Women’s Health Clinic (WHC) provides does not replace your relationship with your healthcare provider. The information is for the purpose of sharing knowledge, so be sure to consult with a medical professional before making decisions or if you have questions about your health.
One of the most important values we have at Women’s Health Clinic (WHC) is informed choice. It is an ethical foundation in all our programs and services.
Informed consent means the client is the decision-maker when offered any treatment or care plan. Once the client knows all choices available to them, they make the decision. The healthcare provider shares potential risks and benefits. They then support the client’s right to make an informed choice (Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, 2007; Canadian Medical Association, 2018; Canadian Psychological Association, 2017).
WHC recognizes certain groups of people face more challenges accessing healthcare than others.
Many people encounter obstacles in healthcare and struggle to have their concerns heard. This includes Indigenous, Black and People of Colour (IBPOC), women, genderqueer, non-binary people, Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, aromantic people, and many others (2SLGBTQIA+), as well as elderly people and those living with disabilities. People new to the country are also often vulnerable in trusting providers due to factors like language barriers and discrimination.