IWK Indigenous Spirometry Training Program and Mentorship

The assessment and management of chronic cough in children is a priority for many clinicians.

On Friday, November 14, the IWK Children’s Hospital Pulmonary Function Lab in partnership with Indigenous Services Canada eHealth, the Atlantic First Nation Tech Services, and Levitt-Safety collaborated to offer the third spirometry training course for Atlantic Indigenous communities.

Health Care workers from four Indigenous Health Centres: Abegweit First Nation, Annapolis Valley First Nation, Ugpi’Ganjig First Nation, and Sipekne’katik First Nation participated in a practical, hands-on training day.

Elder Ann LaBillois opened the day sharing words of wisdom in support of lung health, breath, and connection with nature. "We do not Breathe on our own, so let's take a moment of awareness, this Breath, this moment. So Grateful,” Sukwis Ann.

The spirometry clinic is a one-day clinic for interested health providers taught by Amber Leahy, RRT, (Registered Respiratory Therapist), with the support of Dr. Dimas Mateos, MD, pediatric respirologist at the IWK Health Centre.

Attendees learn the rudiments of lung physiology, spirometry, and spirometry interpretation as a screening tool to assess cough or respiratory ailments in the community. The clinic also covers how to set-up the spirometer, with the help of Ken MacDonald from Levitt-Safety, instruction on proper patient coaching, and practice using the spirometer. Follow-up is provided by the respiratory therapist, either in person or via telehealth, and support is available as needed.

Dr. Mateos MD, and IWK pulmonary function testing respiratory therapist Amber Leahy, facilitate referrals from health practitioners throughout Atlantic Canada. Dr. Mateos explains that they are, "serving the children across Atlantic Canada because every child deserves to have access to proper respiratory care.”

Resources are continuously updated, depending on the needs of the learners. Virtual Mentorship will continue to support the staff and explore the use of telehealth for local clinical pathways.

Testimonial from Dominique Gould, Abegweit First Nations
“It was a fantastic session — I learned so much and can’t wait to continue building my skills. I’m excited to apply this training in my role moving forward. I truly appreciate the time, knowledge, and support you all shared with us today! Wela’lin.”

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 Credit: L'Arche HIVER 2026 un bulletin trimestriel produit par la région de l’Atlantique de Services aux Autochtones Canada / The Arch Winter 2026 quarterly newsletter from Indigenous Services Canada

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IWK Pulmonary Function Lab and IWK Chest Clinic provide respiratory care services to all children in Atlantic Canada. Please contact with inquiries/requests.

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IWK PFT lab: (Phone) 902 – 470 – 8253 (Fax) 902 – 470 – 7354

IWK Chest Clinic (Phone----------) 902 – 470 – 8220 (Fax) 902 – 470 - 7223

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