Summary

The relationship between colonization and the ongoing health inequities for Indigenous peoples in Canada is a focus of health systems today. Recognizing these relationships, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s report laid out recommendations to address changes that are needed within the health system. Healthcare leaders are increasingly acknowledging that their stewardship of the system includes a special obligation to embed reconciliation within systems of care. Yet there is no general consensus today on how hospitals, long term care facilities, or health systems can specifically incorporate the TRC’s Calls to Action in their organizations. As the national voice of health-care organizations in Canada, HealthCareCAN is aiming to resolve this gap by providing practical guidance to executives and Boards of Directors on implementing reconciliation within healthcare organizations.