Braiding Indigenous and Western Models of Care: A Pathway to Culturally Safe Integrated Primary Health Systems

Background: Indigenous Primary Health Care Organizations (IPHCOs) across Ontario have long demonstrated models of care that are naturally integrated — weaving together physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. However, mainstream integrated care reforms have often failed to reflect Indigenous worldviews or governance. This presentation highlights the work of the Indigenous Primary Health Care Council (IPHCC) in advancing culturally safe system integration that honours Indigenous rights, relationships, and community leadership.

 

Aim: s/Objectives:To share learnings from IPHCC’s initiatives that strengthen collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous health systems while maintaining Indigenous self-determination and cultural integrity.

 

Methods: This work draws on qualitative insights from IPHCC-led projects, including the development of provincial partnerships, Indigenous governance frameworks, and culturally grounded evaluation tools. Case studies include community-driven approaches to primary care, traditional healing integration, and cross-sector collaboration with Ontario Health Teams.

 

Results: Emerging outcomes include enhanced continuity of care, improved client experience, and growing recognition of Indigenous-led governance in integrated system design. Communities reported increased trust and engagement when cultural protocols and traditional knowledge were embedded in care planning. Collaborative relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners were strengthened through shared learning and co-designed frameworks.

 

Conclusion: s

Culturally safe integration requires more than service alignment — it demands structural change that centres Indigenous voices. IPHCC’s experience demonstrates how braiding Indigenous and Western models can produce more wholistic, equitable systems of care. The presentation will provide actionable insights for health planners and partners seeking to advance reconciliation and health equity through integrated care.

Keywords: Indigenous health, cultural safety, governance, primary care integration, reconciliation