About Us
One page info sheet on the FNHA: PDF (239 kb)
FNHC-FNHA-FNHDA Relationship Agreement
On November 6, 2012, the FNHC, FNHA and FNHDA held a signing ceremony for the FNHC-FNHA-FNHDA Relationship Agreement. The Sts’ailes Cultural Committee played a key role in ensuring that the signing was conducted in the cultural protocol of the Coast Salish.
The Relationship Agreement builds upon the direction provided by BC First Nations about the mandates of the FNHC, FNHA, and FNHDA. It outlines the roles and mandates of each First Nations Health Governing component and sets out processes to ensure that the FNHC, FNHA, and FNHDA have regular communications and provide mutual support to one another.
The Agreement sets out a set of six shared values of the FNHC, FNHA and FNHDA: Respect; Culture; Relationships; Excellence; Fairness; and, Discipline. It also includes commitments to reciprocal accountability and consensus leadership. “It is important as we engage in change to be clear about our respective mandates and our roles and responsibilities.” commented Grand Chief Doug Kelly, Chair of the FNHC “With this agreement, we commit to partnership, share the work, and create opportunities to learn and grow together.”
Photo: back row: Warner Adam, (Deputy Chair, FNHC), Jeanine Lynxleg (Vice-President, FNHDA), Joe Gallagher (CEO, FNHA). Front Row: Grand Chief Doug Kelly (Chair, FNHC), Jackie McPherson (President, FNHDA), Pierre Leduc (Vice-Chair, FNHA).
FNHC/FNHA/FNHDA Relationship Agreement | pdf download |
Spirit Magazine
Winter 2013
Download it here: PDF download
Fall 2012
Download it here: PDF download
Regional Health Survey
Healthy Children, Healthy Families,
Healthy Communities
BC Provincial Report
2008-10 First Nations Regional Health Survey
Download the summary here: PDF (1.74 mb)
Download the full report here: PDF (6.93 mb)
Mental Wellness and Substance Use - 10 Year Plan
A Provincial Approach to Facilitate Regional and Local Planning and Action
Download here: FNHA MWSU plan PDF (1.93 mb)
Health Partnership Accord Publication now Available
On October 13, 2011 the British Columbia Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nation Health Governance (Framework Agreement) was signed by the Government of Canada, the Government of BC, and BC First Nations represented by the First Nations Health Council and the First Nations Health Society (precursor to the FNHA). One of the commitments was the development of a Health Partnership Accord that would capture the vision of the Parties for a better, more responsive and integrated health system for First Nations in BC.
The Health Partnership Accord was signed on December 17, 2012 by Canada, BC and the FNHC. The Accord is a non-legally binding agreement that describes the broad and enduring relationship amongst the Parties and their political commitment to pursue their shared vision. The HPA will be an evergreen document that keeps pace with changing circumstances respecting First Nations’ health and with the evolving nature of the partnership among the Parties.
The Health Partnership Accord publication explains the agreement and its role in the ongoing work to improve the lives of BC First Nations
Download the Publication here (pdf 1.2mb): Health_Partnership_Accord_Publication.pdf
Quarterly Transition Update (December 2012) is now Available: Update from the First Nations Health Council and First Nations Health Authority on Framework Agreement Implementation
The Transition Update (Dec2012) is now available. The Update describes the ongoing work of the FNHC/FNHA, with our partners, to implement the Framework Agreement.
Transition Update December 2012|pdf: Transition Update December.pdf
Draft Terms of Reference - Traditional Healers Advisory Committee
Traditional Medicine has been a key area in First Nations health and First Nations health policy documents. Due to the high level of interest for BC First Nations’ communities, the Tripartite partners and in particular the First Nations Health Council (FNHC), added traditional medicine as a priority to the Tripartite First Nations Health Plan in 2008-2009. The goal of this new health action item is ”to support and advocate for traditional medicines and practices” and this is the mandate of the Traditional Healers Advisory Committee.
For more background information on the First Nations Health Authority’s (FNHA) and the FNHC’s work in the area of traditional wellness, please see the Appendix of the Terms of Reference.
Download the Terms of Reference: Traditional_Healers_Advisory_Commitee_TOR_Oct_24_2012.pdf
The Tripartite Committee on First Nations Health was created under the Transformative Change Accord: First Nations Health Plan to bring together First Nations leaders and government partners. Meeting bi-annually the committee is responsible to make an annual progress report on the integration and improvement of health services for First Nations in BC. This interim report describes the progress that the partners have made in the year 2011/12.
Download the report: Together in Wellness 2011-12 Interim Report | pdf download |
On May 24 2012, BC First Nations Chiefs passed a resolution in favour of a new First Nations health governance structure and the key ways in which BC First Nations will manage change in transitioning to this new health governance structure. Resolution 2012-01 adopted the “Consensus Paper 2012: Navigating the Currents of Change - Transitioning to a New First Nations Health Governance Structure.”
During Gathering Wisdom IV the Chiefs passed Resolution 2011-01 and directed the FNHC to develop a workplan for the Resolution 2011-01. This year First Nations again called on the FNHC to update and enhance the Resolution 2011-01 Workplan to include the action items set out in the Consensus Paper 2012 and the Resolution 2012-01. In fullfillment of that direction this workplan establishes an implementation plan for each of the follow-up activities identified in Resolution 2011-01 and Resolution 2012-01.
PDF version of the Workplan: Workplan_Package-2012-FIN-signed.pdf
Transition Update (October 2012): Update from the First Nations Health Council and First Nations Health Authority on Framework Agreement Implementation
The Transition Update (Oct 2012) is now available. The Update describes the ongoing work of the FNHC/FNHA, with our partners, to implement the Framework Agreement.
Transition Update | pdf download |
Consensus Paper and Resolution 2012-01: Navigating the Currents of Change:Transitioning to a New First Nations Health Governance Structure
Back by popular demand, the 2012 Consensus Paper and Resolution 2012-01 has been formatted into a handy guidebook for ease of use and distribution.
Navigating the Currents of Change: Transitioning to a New First Nations Health Governance Structure captures First Nations feedback and consensus on how change will be managed through the transition process.
Download the Consensus Paper and Resolution 2012-01 | pdf download |
If you attended Gathering Wisdom V your copy is on its way in the mail. To request additional hardcopies please email:
Gathering Wisdom V Summary Document
Traditional Healers Gathering Report
“On October 12-13, 2011, the Traditional Healers Gathering was proudly hosted on Musqueam Traditional territory and was held at the First Nations House of Learning. The interim First Nations Health Authority (iFNHA) and Aboriginal Health-Vancouver Coastal Health, made this Gathering possible.
This Traditional Healers Gathering was attended by 131 people, which included 68 traditional healers and knowledge keepers from across BC. This Gathering was intended to bring together BC First Nation traditional healers and traditional healing program leads to share their knowledge and provide a space for comments and suggestions on how to support traditional
healers in their work and in the communities.
The long-term goals of this Gathering are to develop strategies on how to incorporate traditional healing practices into programs, communities and health systems, therefore ultimately supporting traditional healing practices and making it more accessible to community members. This Gathering endeavored to draw upon the wisdom and experience of the participants to nurture tradition, culture, and holistic wellbeing in our current health systems.”
- (excerpt from the Introduction)
PDF Download | Traditional_Healers_Gathering_Report_2012.pdf
BC Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nation Health Governance
News Release - BC Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nation Health Governance | pdf download |
Backgrounder - BC Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nation Health Governance | pdf download |
Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nation Health Governance | pdf |
Ceremonial Document Framework Agreement | pdf |
Resolution 2011-01 Draft Workplan
On May 26th 2011, BC First Nations leaders passed a historic resolution to approve the transfer of First Nations health programs and services from federal control to First Nations control. Through Resolution 2011-01 and the “Consensus Paper: British Columbia First Nations Perspectives on a New Health Governance Arrangement,” First Nations provided clear direction on the standards of this new arrangement, and tasked the First Nations Health Council with clear next steps in implementation.
One of the immediate next steps that First Nations directed the First Nations Health Council to undertake was the development of a Resolution 2011-01 Workplan. This workplan is being provided to Regional Caucuses for review and feedback between September 27, 2011 and December 31st, 2011. This Workplan includes specific key activities clearly set out in the Resolution, such as: signing of the Framework Agreement; supporting the development of Regional Caucuses and Tables; and, establishing a strategy and approach for the conclusion of sub-agreements.
Resolution 2011-01 DRAFT Workplan Package | pdf download |
Resolution 2011-01 Workplan PowerPoint Presentation | pdf download |
FIRST NATIONS HEALTH COUNCIL PROCESS TO IMPLEMENT THE TRIPARTITE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON FIRST NATION HEALTH GOVERNANCE
The purpose of this document is to describe the process for the First Nations Health Council (FNHC) to oversee the implementation of the Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nation Health Governance (“Framework Agreement”), including the conclusion of sub-agreements.
FNHC Process to Implement the Framework Agreement | pdf download |
SUMMARY: FIRST NATIONS HEALTH COUNCIL PROCESS TO IMPLEMENT THE TRIPARTITE FRAMEWORK AGREEMENT ON FIRST NATION HEALTH GOVERNANCE
FNHC Framework Agreeement Implementation Process FAQ and Summary | pdf download |
Posted September 26th, 2011
2010-2011 FNHS Annual Report
On behalf of the interim First Nations Health Authority Board of Directors we are pleased to present to 2011 Annual Report. The structure of this year’s report reflects the ongoing growth of the First Nation health governance structure; you will find independent reports from the FNHDA and FNHC secretariats. Illustrating our collective commitment to Directive one- A Community-Driven, Nation-Based process you will find 7 community-based stories in the report, reflecting some of our strategic investments through community engagement hubs and best or better practices.
Please note: Hardcopies of the 2010-2011 Annual Report have been mailed to all BC Chiefs, Health Directors and Community Engagement Hubs. To request a hardcopy please email:
FNHS Annual Report 2011 | pdf download |
First Nations Health Society audited Financial Statements 2010-2011 | pdf download |
Gathering Wisdom IV for a Shared Journey: Summary Report
BC First Nations Leaders and Health Directors and technicians came together in an historic meeting to determine the future direction of an initiative to restructure health care for First Nations in British Columbia. Held in Richmond on May 24-26th, the meeting – Gathering Wisdom IV was attended by an unprecedented level of First Nations leaders in BC.
Read the summary report to learn how the presentations, panels, and discussions lead to the adoption of the Consensus Paper: British Columbia First Nations Perspectives on a New Health Governance Arrangement. Discover how leadership perspectives shared by BC Chiefs, Provincial and Federal Partners and guest speakers informed the discussion and ratification of a collaborative approach to improving First Nations health in BC.
GW_IV_Summary_Report | pdf download |
Posted July 26, 2011
Consensus Paper : British Columbia First Nations Perspectives on a New Health Governance Arrangement
May 26th, 2011 BC Chiefs and designates voted to adopt the Consensus Paper: British Columbia First Nations Perspectives on a New Health Governance Arrangement. The Consensus Paper was developed based on the feedback from five regional caucuses and Health Partnership Workbooks and articulates province-wide principles and advice for health governance. This paper brings together common elements from all five Regional Caucuses, and provides direction to the First Nations Health Council to move forward and work with BC and Canada to conclude a new First Nations Health governance structure. We are pleased to announce that the Consensus Paper and Resolution have been combined into one handy reference document.
FNHC Consensus Paper and Resolution | pdf download |
Moving Forward Together – Community Engagement Hubs & First Nations Health Council: Communications Strategy and Toolkit
The First Nations Health Council Communications Advisory Committee and Communications Department are pleased to present ‘Moving Forward Together’, a communications strategy and Toolkit document.
‘Moving Forward Together’ is meant to support Community Hubs in their communications efforts by providing practical advice and tools proven to work at the grassroots level. The strategy aims to clarify the communications relationship between the FNHC and Hubs and to outline existing communications challenges, future goals and strategies.
Below you will find the 2 PDF Downloads for the entire document. We have also extracted the appendices so that they may be easy to download and reference as links in emails and through web-based social media (twitter, facebook, blogs, etc.). Please note: The PDF format that allows for digital entry will take longer to download. If you are using a Mac OSX and are experiencing troubles viewing these PDFs on your web-browser, we advise that you save it to your hard-drive in order to view it properly.
Entire Document
Web-version
Moving Forward Together - CEH_Toolkit | PDF Download |
Digital Form Version
Moving Forward Together - CEH_Toolkit_digital form version | PDF Download |
Toolkit Workbook
Workbook - Envisioning Community_Engagement Hub Success | PDF Download |
Appendix List
Appendix A- CEH Communications Toolkit Introduction | PDF Download |
Appendix B- The Decision Making Process | PDF Download |
Appendix C- Impact on the Environment | PDF Download |
Appendix D- How to Communicate Your Message | PDF Download |
Appendix E- What’s a Key Message | PDF Download |
Appendix F- A Snapshot of Key Messages | PDF Download |
Appendix G- Creating a Community Newsletter - Start Small | PDF Download |
Appendix H - Case Study- Starting Your Community Newspaper | PDF Download |
Appendix I- Case Study - Branding: “We Are Coast Salish” | PDF Download |
Appendix J - Case Study - Events as Communications | PDF Download |
Appendix K - Sample - Event Planning Checklist | PDF Download |
Appendix L - Case Study - Web-based Social Media | PDF Download |
Appendix_M - What the Tweet is Twitter | PDF Download |
Appendix N- Web-based Social Media Tips | PDF Download|
Appendix O - Case Study - Raising Awareness about FNHC and our Hub | PDF Download |
Appendix P - Getting Started | PDF Download |
Regional Summary of Governance Discussions
The First Nations Health Council (FNHC) launched a “Health Partnership Workbook” in January 2011, and made the Workbook available online and as the focus of a series of First Nations regional caucus sessions across the province. The Health Partnership Workbook summarized the discussions about health governance held at more than 100 First Nations regional caucus meetings over the past three years and asked First Nations Chiefs, leaders and senior health professionals in BC to confirm this summary of feedback gathered and share new thoughts and perspectives. The results will inform further discussions, negotiations and relationship building towards the establishment of a new health governance arrangement of First Nations health services in BC.
The feedback provided by First Nations through the regional caucus sessions and the Health Partnership Workbook has been rolled into 5 summary documents – one for each region in BC. The initial regional reports were provided to each region for review, discussion and further amendment in April 2011 and this revised version of the initial draft report was provided again to each region in May 2011.
Interior_Regional_Report | PDF Download |
Northern_Regional_Report | PDF Download |
Vancouver_Coastal_Regional_Report | PDF Download |
Fraser_Regional_Report | PDF Download |
Vancouver_Island_Regional_Report | PDF Download |
NEW!
Implementing the Vision- Reimagining First Nations Health in BC
This book is meant to provide the reader with an overview of where we have come from and where we are going in terms of the collective goal of the Tripartite First Nations Health Plan: to ensure First Nations are involved as equal partners in the planning and management of health services for our people. The work that BC First Nations are doing today will help us achieve that goal, and to ensure future generations have authority to enact policies, measure success, allocate resources, and establish service standards that are accountable to our communities. We need to work together to create healthy, strong, more vibrant communities now and in the future.
FNHC_Health_Governance_Book | pdf download |
To order copies of Implementing the Vision: Reimagining First Nations Health in BC please drop us an email at:
First Nations ActNow Toolkit
THE BC FIRST NATIONS ACTNOW TOOLKIT WAS CREATED FOR THE PROMOTION OF HEALTH AND WELL-BEING FOR FIRST NATION SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES BY THE FIRST NATIONS HEALTH COUNCIL
This Toolkit can be used for both community and school programs. Schools are uniquely positioned to have a strong, positive impact on a child’s lifestyle, including their health and wellbeing. By providing a holistic curriculum with appropriate lifestyle, nutrition and physical activity content, health and wellness programs can support a child’s development. Providing an environment that supports healthy eating and physical activity outside the classroom can reinforce this.
Download the ActNow Toolkit | 7mb pdf download |
First Nations ActNow Toolkit Facilitators Guide
This facilitator’s guide will support deliver of the ActNow Toolkit in your community! It is intended for use with smaller groups (e.g. 10 people), where an active dialogue can be maintained with all participants. This format allows for sharing and discussion among participants who will be kept together at one table throughout the workshop. For larger groups (e.g. over 20), or where a regional workshop is held with multiple communities, the use of focus groups is recommended. See the Facilitator’s Guide for Focus Group Delivery.
Download the ActNow Toolkit Facilitators Guide | pdf download |
ACTIVE SPIRIT, ACTIVE HISTORY:
A Culture of Sports, Activity and Well-Being among BC First Nations
This book was created by the First Nations Health Council to share stories of First Nations people who have triumphed, mentored, or lead the way by living a healthy lifestyle through both traditional and non-traditional activities.
First Nations people enjoy a long and rich history in sports, physical activity, and fitness. Physical activity has the ability to empower, motivate, and inspire people contributing to the development of healthy, confident, and resilient First Nations communities.
By sharing their experiences and stories, we can see their connection with our heritage and traditions which relied on the ability to be active. We feel these ordinary everyday champions of health are embracing their Active Spirit and honouring their Active History.
Title: Active Spirit, Active History: A Culture of sports, activity and well-being among BC First Nations
Content: Contains 68 stories of different BC First Nations individuals with pictures of the storytellers in their element.
Price: $35.00
Download a copy of the book in PDF format with the link below or, if you wish to buy the physical book, click on the Buy Now button and you will be directed to our PayPal account for checkout. General Delivery, shipping will take 3-10 business days.
Active Spirit, Active History | pdf download |
Tell us what you think of the book? | online survey |
Regional Profiles of First Nations Communities
According to Current Provincial Health Authority Regions
The 2010 Regional Profiles Documents includes relevant demographic information provided by federal and provincial governments. The document provides an simple overview of First Nations Health information in BC.
Regional Profiles of BC First Nations | pdf download |
2009-2010 FN Health Society Annual Report
The 2009-2010 FN Health Society Annual Report describes progress that the Society has made to implement the aspirations and goals of the FN Health Council and the TFNHP. This report was released following the FN Health Society AGM on September 20, 2010.
FN Health Society Annual Report 2009-2010 | pdf download |
2007-2010 3-year Progress Report to BC First Nations
The 3-year Progress Report to BC First Nations documents the opportunities and challenges faced by the First Nations Health Council and FN Health Society Technical Team in implementing the Tripartite First Nations Health Plan between 2007 and March 2010. The report provides relevant background information leading up the Tripartite First Nations Health Plan and a financial progress report. To request a hardcopy of the report please email
FNHC 3 year report to BC First Nations | pdf download |
Best Practices of Traditional Models of Wellness Scan
The FNHC completed the Best Practices of Traditional Models of Wellness Scan in March 2010. This scan was developed to help communities support Traditional and Alternative medicine practices in their health programs and to follow up on the Archive Research Project that commenced December 2009. First Nations Traditional Models of Wellness Environmental Scan in BC was prepared from the results. Here is a brief review of the final outcomes from the scan and the Archive Research Project.
Traditional Medicines Scan Summmary| pdf download |
DOWNLOAD the FULL REPORT
FNHC Year in Review Report (2007-2008)
British Columbia Tripartite First Nations Plan - Year In Review 2008 - 2009 | pdf download |
Gathering Wisdom Reports
2007 Gathering Wisdom summary report | pdf download |
2008 Gathering Wisdom summary report | pdf download |
2009 Gathering Wisdom summary report | pdf download |
Key Enabling Documents
Download the Transformative Change Accord
Download the TCA: First Nations Health Plan.
Download the First Nations Health Plan Memorandum of Understanding
Download the Tripartite First Nations Health Plan
Brochures
Tripartite First Nations Health Plan 101 Brochure | pdf download |
Implementing The Vision: Governance of First Nations Health Service in British Columbia| pdf download |
PDF: First Nations Health & You | .pdf download | First Nations Health & You health resource guide for Programs, Services, and Advocacy
HOW does cervical cancer link to HPV? [pdf]
WHEN was your last PAP Test? [pdf]
WHY do I need a Colposcopy Exam & what should I expect? [pdf]
WHAT Does It Mean If You Have an Abnormal PAP Test? [pdf]
Tools
Community Nutrition Needs and Assets Assessment Nutrition Needs and Assets Report | pdf download |
Thank you to everyone who completed the Community Nutrition Needs and Assets Assessment (CNNAA). The results of this survey have been compiled the following priorities for community nutrition were identified:
1) Training priorities include those that increase community capacity to address food security, healthy meal planning for cooks and build traditional food knowledge and skill.
2) Communities would like support and training in food policy development.
3) There is a need for part-time community based health promoters with a nutrition focus.
Hard copies of the report can be mailed out at individual request and will also be available at upcoming Health Council gatherings.
Traditional Food Fact Sheets
The First Nations Traditional Food Fact Sheets detail commonly used traditional foods throughout BC and provides relevant nutritional information about traditional foods. The fact sheets are being used by BC First Nations and Health Authority support workers to re-introduce Traditional Foods into community Health Programs. This resource was developed by the First Nations Health Council in response to community requests for culturally relevant nutrition information.
Traditional Food Facts Sheets | pdf download |
Healthy Food Guidelines for First Nations Communities
These guidelines are intended to support community members in educating each other about better food and drink choices in schools, meetings, homes, cultural and recreational events, and in restaurants. This resource contains information for various audiences including community members, and administrators.
Healthy Food Guidelines for First Nations Communities| pdf download |
FNHC Health Careers Guide | pdf |
CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS TRAINING MATERIALS
Crisis Communications Training
Crisis Communications Training Exercises
Crisis_Communications Training Handbook