Indigenous health values and principles statement

Summary: It is well documented that disparities in health exist on the basis of race in Canada.1 Although indigenous peoples comprise only 3.4 per cent2 of the general population, they carry an inordinate burden of health issues: early childhood development, maternal health, community health, mental health, chronic disease. Overall, indigenous people suffer the worst health status in the country.3 They have the right to enjoy full expression of indigenous identity and health. To advance the Royal College’s vision of “The best health for all — The best care for all” and its mission “to improve the health and care of Canadians by leading in medical education, professional standards, physician competence and the continuous enhancement of the health system”4, the Royal College 2012 – 2014 strategic plan explicitly aims to improve the health status of indigenous people (KRA 2, Strategy 1, Action 2).5Building on the Royal College CanMEDS intrinsic Roles framework, the values and principles outlined in this document represent a foundational milestone to underpin concrete actions in medical education, professional development and culturally safe practices. These measures will help redress disparities and inequities in the quality of health and care for indigenous peoples wherever they live in Canada.