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Canadian Public Health Association

First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples Health

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PUBLIC HEALTH MATTERS

Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) Peoples in Canada experience some of the most significant health inequities due to historical and systemic barriers to healthcare access, socio-economic challenges, and the effects of colonialism. Addressing these inequities is not only a matter of social justice but also a critical public health priority. The Canadian federal government must take an active role in addressing these disparities, ensuring that Indigenous peoples have access to quality healthcare and the resources needed to achieve better health outcomes.

A Higher Standard

Indigenous Peoples in Canada experience significantly worse health outcomes compared to non-Indigenous populations. Higher rates of chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and mental health challenges are linked to systemic inequities, including inadequate access to healthcare, poor housing conditions, and social determinants of health such as poverty and food insecurity (Indigenous Services Canada, 2024).

First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities face barriers to accessing timely and culturally appropriate healthcare services, particularly in rural and remote areas. Life expectancy among Indigenous Peoples is significantly lower than the Canadian average, and infant mortality rates are up to three times higher in some Indigenous communities (Indigenous Services Canada, 2023).

It’s time for Canada to do better.

Why It Matters

Historical and ongoing systemic discrimination has created persistent gaps in healthcare access and health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. First Nations communities continue to experience high rates of tuberculosis, diabetes, and mental health crises, with suicide rates among Inuit being among the highest in the world (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2019).

The federal government has a legal and moral obligation to uphold the health rights of Indigenous Peoples and must work in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis governments to ensure equitable healthcare access and outcomes.

Policy Solutions for the Next Federal Government

  1. Develop a Comprehensive Indigenous Health Strategy: Co-create and fund a national Indigenous health strategy that addresses the unique health challenges Indigenous communities face.
  2. Support Culturally Appropriate Healthcare Services: Invest in healthcare systems that respect and integrate Indigenous knowledge and traditions, ensuring that healthcare professionals are trained to meet the needs of Indigenous patients.
  3. Address Social Determinants of Health: Implement policies that improve housing, education, and employment opportunities for Indigenous peoples, as these factors have a direct impact on health outcomes.
  4. Increase Mental Health and Addiction Support: Allocate federal funding for mental health and trauma services tailored to Indigenous communities, with a focus on healing and recovery from intergenerational trauma.
  5. Ensure Access to Clean Water and Housing: Work with Indigenous leaders to resolve ongoing water advisories and improve housing conditions in Indigenous communities across Canada.

Questions for the Candidates

  • How will your party address the health disparities faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada?
  • How will your party support Indigenous-led health initiatives and self-determination in healthcare?
  • Will your party commit to implementing all health-related Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission?

Resources