Unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations | VANCOUVER – Monica McAlduff, First Nations Health Authority’s (FNHA) Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nel Wieman, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Terri Aldred, Executive Director, Primary Care and Medical Affairs and Wellness, have issued the following statement following the updated Code of Ethics and Professionalism by the Canadian Medical Association.
On Sept. 16, 2024, the Canadian Medical Association publicly apologized for its role, and the role of the medical profession, in the past and ongoing harms experienced by First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Canada’s health system. Today, on the two year anniversary of this apology, they have released an updated Code of Ethics and Professionalism to strengthen standards and expectations for how physicians provide care in Canada. The FNHA commends the CMA’s ongoing leadership and commitment reflected through this effort.
This is a tangible example of moving beyond words and taking action. However, we recognize that lasting change requires sustained effort across the health system. While progress is being made, First Nations people continue to experience inequities in access, outcomes and treatment within Canada’s health care system. The work of transforming systems that have caused intergenerational harm will be ongoing, and trust must be built between medical providers and clients.
As medical professionals, we hope that the updated Code of Ethics encourages First Nations, Métis and Inuit People to access medical care when needed, without fear of discrimination, to support their health and wellness.
At FNHA, we have collaborated with Health Standards Organization (HSO) to create the BC Cultural Safety and Humility Standard. Cultural Safety results in an environment free of racism and discrimination, where people feel safe when receiving health care.
FNHA remains committed to working alongside First Nations communities, health system partners and organizations such as the CMA, to turn commitments into lasting change and build a health system where First Nations people are treated with dignity, respect and cultural safety.