HEALTH Transformation
First Nations Control of Health
First Nations have been advocating for greater control over their health and wellness, consistent with the inherent right to self-determination. Health Transformation is about building a health system designed, delivered and administered by First Nations.
A health system shaped by our communities, cultures and priorities.
The Anishinabek Nation Health System will recognize holistic and traditional medicines while integrating culturally safe, relevant and responsive care and services for healthier communities and citizens.
Our Journey Toward Health Transformation
Health Transformation has been guided by resolutions of Chiefs-in-Assembly and ongoing collaboration with federal and provincial partners.
Direction from Chiefs-in-Assembly
In June 2016, the Anishinabek Nation Chiefs-in-Assembly passed a resolution directing the Health Secretariat to begin engaging governments to advance First Nation control of health.
Memorandum of Understanding
Ongoing discussions between the Anishinabek Nation, federal and provincial partners resulted in a joint Memorandum of Understanding signed in the Spring of 2018.
Continued Support
In June 2019, Chiefs-in-Assembly passed an updated resolution supporting the continued work toward Health Transformation.
More than changes to existing programs
Health Transformation is not about simply providing more resources or amending existing policies and structures. It is about laying a strong foundation for Anishinabek Nation First Nations to exercise control over the design and delivery of their own health and wellness systems.
First Nations Engagement Sessions are being conducted throughout Anishinabek Nation territory to bring communities together and discuss comprehensive system change based on the social determinants of health.
What is Health Transformation?
Health Transformation will give First Nations a high-quality, culturally-driven health system tailored to community needs and designed and controlled by First Nations.
Health Transformation is not devolution. It is First Nations taking control of their health.
Why do we need Health Transformation?
The current state of First Nations health services does not adequately meet the needs of citizens. Indigenous Peoples continue to experience significant health disparities when compared with the non-Indigenous population.
Life expectancy is shorter and avoidable mortality rates are higher among Indigenous Peoples.
First Nation adults have more than double the risk of dying from avoidable causes when compared with non-Indigenous adults.
Mental illness and suicide rates are higher. Depression and PTSD are prevalent among First Nations people living both on and off reserve.
Suicide rates and rates of self-harm among youth and adults are significantly higher.
Communities with higher levels of community control have demonstrated improved health outcomes.
What are the benefits of Health Transformation?
First Nations would assume control and be central to the design and delivery of health services at the community level.
Better integration and coordination of services to support a seamless continuum of care and reduce service gaps, duplication and fragmentation.
More effective and efficient programs through aggregated health service delivery.
Creation of better and higher-paying employment opportunities.
Improved health outcomes and more responsive service delivery.
Larger and more flexible budgets with long-term escalators.
For the Next Seven Generations
Health Transformation is by Anishinabek for Anishinabek. Its purpose is to create a culturally safe, community-driven health system that supports healthier communities and citizens while securing the well-being of the next seven generations.
Learn More About Health Transformation
Visit the Health Transformation website or contact the team directly for additional information.