Canada's first-ever Tripartite First Nations Health Plan, with the goal of improving the health and well-being of First Nations in British Columbia, is signed – June 11, 2007

Health Initiatives

The Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation works in partnership with the Ministry of Health Services and agencies across government to support and improve the delivery and access of health services to First Nations and Aboriginal people in British Columbia.

The Province has committed to closing the gap that currently exists between First Nations people and other British Columbians. On November 25, 2005 First Ministers and National Aboriginal Leaders agreed to take immediate action to improve the quality of life for Aboriginal Peoples of Canada in five important areas - First Nation-Crown relationships, health, education, housing and economic opportunities. In accordance with that commitment the Province, Canada and the First Nations Leadership Council signed the Transformative Change Accord. The Accord commits the parties to closing the socioeconomic gaps, including health, over a ten-year period.

On November 27, 2006, British Columbia, the Government of Canada and the First Nations Leadership Council signed the historic Tripartite First Nations Health Plan detailing programs and services to take action in closing the gap in health status between First Nations' and other British Columbians by 2015.

The Province has developed a number of provincial programs and initiatives to help improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people. Other highlights include:

  • Integrating the ActNow strategy with First Nations programs to reduce the incidence of preventable diseases like diabetes.
  • Provided $3 million in funding and land for the Stehiyáq Healing and Wellness Village.
  • A provincial strategy that responds to a call by Aboriginal youth for improving health and lifestyles through sport, recreation and physical activity.
  • A commitment to implement Jordan’s Principle – a child first approach to services- with First Nations and the federal government.

For more information about the support for the health and wellness of First Nations in British Columbia, please refer to The Transformative Change Accord: First Nations Health Plan.

Transformative Change Accord

Conversation on Health

The Conversation on Health was the largest public discussion on health and British Columbia's health care system. A summary of the ideas heard and updates from the Conversation are available on the Conversation on Health website.