Lisa Barter

As a fifth-generation resident of Fort McMurray, Lisa Barter embodies the spirit of her hometown. With deep roots in the community and a career dedicated to improving healthcare access, Lisa has become a vital part of the fabric of Fort McMurray. As a Nurse Practitioner, she is committed to providing unbiased healthcare to everyone, particularly those in vulnerable populations.

Growing up in Fort McMurray, Lisa is proud of her ancestry, which includes both Cree heritage and settler roots. Her educational journey has taken her through several esteemed institutions, including the University of Alberta, the University of Regina, and Keyano College. Originally pursuing a degree in engineering, her path changed dramatically when she experienced the compassionate care provided to her grandfather during his palliative care. “I admired the nurses who cared for him and saw how rewarding that career could be. I wanted to care for others the way they cared for him,” she reflects. This pivotal moment sparked her transition from engineering to nursing, leading her to become a registered nurse and eventually a Nurse Practitioner in primary care.

Lisa’s commitment to the community extends beyond her professional role. Although her current volunteer time is often spent with her two young boys, she actively collaborates with non-profit organizations and homeless shelters to provide essential primary care services. Her previous involvement includes serving on the Wood Buffalo Health Advisory Council and the Homelessness Initiatives Strategic Committee, where she worked diligently to identify and address gaps in healthcare access.

“I see where there are gaps in healthcare and stereotypes towards clients, and I want to fill those gaps and break down barriers,” she explains. Lisa’s experiences working with vulnerable populations have introduced her to many dedicated professionals from diverse backgrounds, further fueling her desire to advocate for equitable healthcare access.

Lisa’s vision for the future is ambitious. “I would love to complete my doctorate and create a streamlined process for vulnerable and Indigenous populations to access care,” she shares. She acknowledges the challenges of achieving work-life balance while raising a family, but she sees the value in spending time outdoors and engaging in activities like yoga with her family as vital to her well-being.

In her perspective, community involvement transcends formal roles or social media presence. “Showing up in whatever capacity you are able is more than enough. Spreading kindness is underestimated in the difference it can make in someone’s day,” she emphasizes. Whether it’s a pharmacy technician or a support worker, Lisa recognizes the importance of kindness and compassion in everyday interactions.

Lisa believes that the most significant challenges facing the community today revolve around access to primary healthcare, especially in rural areas. “Many surrounding communities lack access to healthcare due to their remoteness. Basic needs must be addressed before people can focus on higher-level health concerns,” she states. She advocates for increased support for housing and social needs, aiming to end homelessness in the region, which she believes will provide a foundation for individuals to pursue other life goals.

As she looks to the future, Lisa hopes to inspire others to pursue careers in healthcare and remain in Fort McMurray to give back to the community. “I feel lucky to be from here, and I want to encourage others to contribute positively to our community,” she remarks.

In her own words, Lisa Barter embodies the dedication and compassion that Fort McMurray needs. Through her work and advocacy, she is committed to building a healthier, more inclusive community for everyone, ensuring that her hometown continues to thrive for generations to come.

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