Modelling change and cultural safety: A case study in northern British Columbia health system transformation

Abstract

The relationship that Indigenous Peoples have to the Canadian healthcare system makes the system’s weaknesses and complexities obvious. The long-standing lack of consideration to the historical and contemporary realities of Indigenous Peoples has resulted in miscommunication, misunderstanding, mistrust and racism. Health leaders, including health authorities, across the province are thus challenged to ensure that culturally safe environments are available and culturally safe practices are being used. This article begins with an overview of contemporary social political contexts in which Indigenous individual and collective realities are situated. Following is a conceptual discussion focused on health system change and the experiences of Indigenous Peoples. Change at structural, systemic and individual levels is the focus of the change model presented in this article. Throughout this exploration, examples of concrete actions currently underway in a health authority are offered. The article concludes with visions for future change.