We are excited to announce the launch of the Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) – Interior Health (IH) Métis Health and Wellness Plan, an initiative dedicated to enhancing health and wellness outcomes for Métis people through collaboration and cultural integration.
A year ago, at the 2023 Annual General Meeting in Kamloops, Métis Nation British Columbia and Interior Health signed a Letter of Understanding. Since then, significant strides have been made in advocating for Métis communities across BC and increasing Métis visibility. Our ongoing collaborative efforts continue to drive progress, and we are excited to share recent achievements as well as upcoming projects.
Recent achievements
Ta Saantii Mamawapowuk (Michif: Health Gathering): In October 2023, MNBC organized and delivered the Ta Saantii Mamawapowuk Health Gathering in Kelowna. This event was designed to share Métis perspectives on cultural wellness with health authority staff and increase Métis visibility in health-care settings. The successful gathering brought together IH staff, Métis community members, MNBC leadership and staff, for knowledge sharing, cultural activities, and meaningful dialogue. The event has sparked interest across IH departments for more Métis-specific learning opportunities.
Métis-Specific Health and Wellness Resource Postcard: MNBC developed and distributed a Métis-specific health and wellness resource postcard to IH staff working directly with Métis patients and their families. This postcard aims to ensure that Métis patients receive relevant resources and support. Interior Health is working towards automatic distribution of these resource cards when a patient self-identifies as Métis upon registration at an IH facility.
Indigenous Engagement Forum: In February 2024, MNBC participated in IH’s first annual Indigenous Engagement Forum. The MNBC Ministry of Health and Wellness presented on current programs, upcoming initiatives, and strategies to improve Métis health and wellness outcomes. A Métis Elder joined the Elder’s Panel to share personal experiences navigating the health system and perspectives on cultural wellness from a Métis viewpoint.
The Métis Health and Wellness Plans reflect our dedication to providing culturally safe and equitable health care for Métis people and communities in the region. The development of Métis-specific resources highlights our commitment to tackling health disparities while honouring our distinct cultural heritage and Nation. As we progress, we will continue to prioritize meaningful change by ensuring that every Métis individual is visible and receives the care and respect they deserve.
Upcoming projects & initiatives
Métis 101: Ta Saantii Curriculum: The MNBC Health Equity Team, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Heritage and Language, is developing a Métis-specific cultural wellness education curriculum. The “Métis 101: Ta Saantii” workshop will be offered virtually and in-person to IH staff, covering Métis identity, the impacts of colonization, and strategies for supporting Métis health and wellness. This training will be accessible via the IH iLearn platform, allowing for tracking of participation and completion.
Health Emergency and Climate Management Support: MNBC ministries of Health and Wellness, Environmental Protection, Climate Change and Food Security are working in partnership with IH to improve support for Métis Chartered Communities during emergency events like fires, floods, or landslides. A new process map is being created to streamline communication and ensure Métis individuals receive timely access to health resources and financial support during climate crises, extreme weather events, and emergencies.
Métis Health-care Worker Pin Project: MNBC is working to launch a Métis health-care worker “pin project” to celebrate and honour Métis frontline health professionals. The pin will be infection control-approved and worn with uniforms by self-identified Métis health authority staff. This initiative aims to enhance Métis representation and ensure Métis care seekers feel welcome in health-care settings.
The Métis Health and Wellness Plan is a pivotal step toward ensuring that Métis individuals receive the culturally respectful and equitable care they deserve. Recent initiatives, like the [Ta Saantii Mamawapowuk] (Health Gathering in Michif) reflect our ongoing commitment to increasing knowledge of Métis people and our chartered communities, improving health outcomes and strengthening our community ties and relationships. We are dedicated to advancing these efforts and making a lasting difference in Métis health and wellness across the region.
Looking ahead
With the release and endorsement of the Métis Health and Wellness Plan, in partnership with IH, MNBC looks forward to the work ahead supported by IH board chair Dr. Robert Halpenny and Addie Pryce, IH VP Indigenous Partnerships. Together, we are paving the way for a healthier and more equitable future for Métis communities across B.C.
For more details on the plan, contact us by email at health@metisnationbc.ca.
Interior Health is incredibly excited to be releasing the MNBC-IH Métis Health and Wellness Plan with MNBC. The Plan will guide our collaborative, partnered work towards improving the care, cultural safety, and health outcomes of Métis people throughout the Interior region. This comprehensive and thoughtful plan, and the commitment we made as partners in re-signing our Letter of Understanding one year ago, is indicative of how strong and important our relationship is. Many of the baskets of work outlined in the plan are well underway and we are looking forward to seeing, and measuring, the positive impacts on Métis access, experiences, and outcomes in health care.
Remembering Dr. Doug Cochrane
The recent passing of Dr. Doug Cochrane has deeply affected many. Known for his gentle leadership and unwavering commitment to quality care, Doug will be remembered for his humility and kindness.
Doug was the previous IH board chair and passed away February 2024. He signed the Letter of Understanding with MNBC at last year's AGM, showcasing his dedication to Indigenous health and reconciliation. His profound impact on B.C.'s health-care system and his role in advancing patient safety will be remembered with great respect.
Our heartfelt condolences go to his family and loved ones.
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