Indigenous Self-Identification

Indigenous self-identification initiative

At Interior Health, we are committed to providing culturally safe, person-centered care. When you access Interior Health services, we invite you to voluntarily and confidentially state if you self-identify as Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, or Inuit). Self-identification is based on how you define your identity and does not require proof of a First Nations status card or Métis citizenship.

The Indigenous Self-Identification (ISI) initiative helps Interior Health design better programs, improve services, and enhance care experiences for Indigenous Peoples. It provides insight into where and how Indigenous clients access care, allowing us to offer more culturally relevant supports, such as Indigenous Patient Navigators. The initiative also strengthens our accountability to the Indigenous communities whose territories we serve.

All information collected is completely confidential and protected by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Frequently asked questions

What is Indigenous self-identification?

Self-identification as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit is based on how you define your Indigenous identity. It is voluntary and confidential. You do not need to provide proof, and it is not defined by whether you have a First Nation status card or Métis citizenship.

Why ask about Indigenous identity?

Asking about Indigenous self-identification helps us better understand and support the diverse and distinct needs of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. The data enhances program delivery, improves access to culturally relevant resources and supports, and strengthens our efforts to design and deliver more culturally safe programs that integrate traditional practices into health care.

Who is being asked?

Every person accessing care is asked the self-identification question(s). We do not make assumptions about who is or is not Indigenous.

What if I don’t want to answer?

Self-identification is always voluntary.

How might I benefit from self-identification?

Your response will help us offer access to culturally relevant resources and Indigenous-specific supports such as Indigenous Patient Navigator services, where available, and enable our care teams to incorporate traditional practices into your care plan, if you choose.

What is the process to self-identify?

If you elect to answer the self-identification question, your response will become part of your electronic health record. You can ask registration staff to change your self-identification response at any time.

How will this information be used?

Indigenous self-identification data informs health care planning and the development of culturally safe policies, programs, and services. All information collected is completely confidential and protected by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

Is asking someone to self-identify discriminatory?

The Anti-Racism Data Act requires government to create and support an anti-racism strategy that will identify and address racism in public policies, programs and services. The aim is to make B.C. a more equitable place for Indigenous and racialized people.
The Act was co-developed with the First Nations Leadership Council, the Alliance of BC Modern Treaty Nations, the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres and Métis Nation British Columbia.

Resources & Links

Fast facts about Indigenous Self-Identification at Interior Health

Learn more about Indigenous Patient Navigators
Access Indigenous Patient Care Quality Consultants
Explore information and resources for Indigenous Peoples, families, and communities
For more information on how we use your personal information, please visit: About IH | Privacy, Rights & Confidentiality

Feedback? Let us know.

We are committed to ongoing communications with Indigenous communities and the public about implementation of this initiative. If you have any feedback about this initiative or how it impacts patients, please email: IndigenousPartnerships@interiorhealth.ca

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