The Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) have signed an agreement to improve the health care system within the NAN Territory.
The new Relationship Accord was signed during the recent NAN Chiefs Assembly on Health Transformation and Governance, said a joint statement from both organizations.
The purpose of the accord said the statement is to develop mutually supported initiatives that will build capacity and strengthen the health system within NAN territory. Nishnawbe Aski Nation territory encompasses James Bay Treaty No. 9 and the Ontario portion of Treaty No. 5, a landmass covering two-thirds of the Province of Ontario. NAN represents 49 First Nations with a total population (on- and off-reserve) of 45,000, said the statement.
Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler responded that he was pleased and grateful to see experts committed to working with First Nations communities for the design and function of an effective health system.
“These accords are significant steps to achieving health equity and the removal of barriers to safe and effective health care across NAN territory. Miigwetch to our partners for their dedication and support. We look forward to working together to build capacity and improve health outcomes for our communities,” said Fiddler.
NOSM Dean Dr. Sarita Verma also commented on the importance of the accord.
“We know the health challenges that these communities face. We know that structural social inequities such as colonization, racism, social exclusion and repression of self-determination are important social determinants of health," said Verma.
"We are committed to promoting innovation, discovery, and academic and clinical excellence within our School while building a culture of diversity, inclusion, integrity and empowerment," she added.
More information on the accord and other agreements was provided in a dedicated news release from NAN.
