“Profound Change” Ahead with NAN Health Transformation Underway

On November 17, 2017, Nishnawbe Aski Nation (“NAN”) concludes a two-day Health Summit in Timmins, Ontario, which brought together representatives, from Indigenous, Federal and Provincial governments, regarding a multi-year Community Health Transformation initiative, aimed at addressing systemic health inequities.

Former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, Ovide Mercredi, has been appointed to lead the NAN Community Health Transformation team. The team includes the following experts from NAN territory and Canada:

  • Helen Cromarty – NAN Elder and Health Advisor
  • Doris Mitchell – Family Physician, Chapleau area
  • Michael Kirlew – Family Physician, Sioux Lookout area
  • Mae Katt – Nurse Practitioner, Thunder Bay
  • Alika Lafontaine – Past President, Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada

Dr. Jane Philpott, the Federal Minister of Indigenous Services, and Dr. Eric Hoskins, Ontario’s Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, were in attendance and indicated support for NAN’s Community Health Transformation initiative.

Dr. Jane Philpott stated, “the systems as they are functioning now were not designed in a way that is in the best interest of First Nations, and that’s exactly what we’ve acknowledged by saying we need a new approach, the system needs a transformation.”

Dr. Eric Hoskins stated, ” for the first time in Ontario’s history we’re talking about a complete transformation of the system to one that it under the guidance and leadership of NAN. It’s the First Nations planned, developed and implemented…It’s a pretty profound change.”

Falconers LLP counsel are providing legal support to NAN.

In the News

NAN Community Health Transformation

Ministers weigh in on NAN transformation   November 17, 2017, Timmins Press

Health Summit Agenda – Draft    Nishnawbe Aski Nation

Ovide Mercredi leads NAN team on health transformation    November 14, 2017, tbnewswatch

Ovide Mercredi to Lead NAN Team on Health Transformation    November 14, 2017, Nishnawbe Aski Nation News Release

Federal, Provincial, and First Nations Leaders Sign Charter of Relationship Principles   July 31, 2017, Government of Canada

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