Abstract
Background: The Indigenous Primary Health Care Council (IPHCC) plays a pivotal role in addressing systemic anti-Indigenous racism in Ontario's health systems, focusing on First Nation, Inuit, and Métis communities. This presentation will delve into the multifaceted strategies implemented by the IPHCC to confront and mitigate racism, promoting a more inclusive and respectful healthcare environment. Central to the IPHCC's approach is the integration of trauma-informed Indigenous Cultural Safety (ICS) training. This training is designed to educate healthcare providers on the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, enhancing their cultural competency and sensitivity towards the unique experiences of Indigenous peoples.
Furthermore, the IPHCC has launched the Safespace Network, an innovative anonymous reporting and learning tool. This platform enables individuals to report incidents of racism and discrimination without fear of retaliation, fostering a safer and more supportive healthcare setting. The data collected through the Safespace Network serves as a critical resource for advocacy and policy development. By analyzing trends and patterns in the reports, the IPHCC effectively holds health systems accountable and advocates for necessary reforms.
This workshop will highlight the successes and challenges faced by the IPHCC in its ongoing efforts to decolonize Ontario's health systems. Through a detailed examination of the training programs and the effectiveness of the Safespace Network, the presentation aims to shed light on the transformative potential of these initiatives. The ultimate goal of the IPHCC's endeavors is to establish a healthcare landscape in Ontario that is free from racism and discrimination, where Indigenous peoples can access care with dignity and respect.
Audience: Researchers, academics, students, policy makers, administrators, executive leadership, healthcare providers.
Approach: The structure of the workshop will be 5 minutes introduction, 25 minutes of presentation, 20 minutes small group work, 10 large group sharing of discussion highlights.
Three Key Learnings
1.The importance of trauma-informed care and education
2.Anonymous reporting as a tool for change
3.Advocacy for policy reform and decolonization of health systems