Partners Sign Historic Agreement
On October 13th, 2011, BC, Canada and BC First Nations signed the historic Tripartite Framework Agreement on First Nations Health. The signing ceremony was hosted by Squamish Nation and included cultural protocols provided by Squamish and Sta’Ailes First Nation. Check out speeches from the principles and witnesses below:
Federal Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq
Provincial Minister of Health Services Michael deJong
Grand Chief Doug Kelly, Chair, First Nations Health Council
National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo
Chief Douglas White III, Snuneymuxw
Chief Bill Cramner, Namgis
Grand Chief Stewart Phillip
Kukpi7 Wayne Christian
Chief Wilf Adam, Lake Babine Nation
Please note that due to technical difficulties Chief Adam’s speech was not fully captured
What does the Future hold?A new structure for governance of First Nations health services in British Columbia, which will initially include regional health planning and administration as well as health design, delivery and accountability, will be created and implemented to reflect the service delivery needs of First Nations and to define results to be achieved.
BC First Nations have been developing a meaningful Health Partnership with BC and Canada over the past several years. Through this partnership, BC First Nations will be the first in Canada to assume control of Federally Funded health services through a new First Nations Health Authority. A First Nations Health Authority will position BC First Nations to enter into partnerships with Regional Health Authorities and provincial Health Service Organizations.
Through the Tripartite process, the coordination of federally and provincially-funded health programs and services will be more effective and include the increased participation of First Nations in the governance, management and delivery of services. Through this new arrangement, First Nations health policy development, program management, and service delivery will take place closer to home. BC First Nations will also be well positioned to create and test new approaches to health care.
Duplication will not occur and a parallel health system will not be created. Supported by our partners, these efforts will result in health improvements at the individual/patient, community, region, and population health levels.
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