As the national voice of physicians across Canada, the Canadian Medical Association condemns all forms of anti-Indigenous racism by physicians and health professionals whether in medical clinics, hospitals or care environments, and in any other settings.
Recent insights released by Statistics Canada confirms that one in five Indigenous people report experiencing unfair treatment, racism or discrimination from a health care professional. This is simply unacceptable as physicians and health professionals must build trusting relationships with those in their care. We must do better.
Our commitment to “better” was a central element of our Apology to Indigenous Peoples this past September, when the CMA acknowledged its role, and the role of the medical profession, in past and ongoing harms to First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in the health system.
As part of our ReconciliACTION plan, we committed to revising the CMA Code of Ethics and Professionalism to strengthen provisions related to anti-Indigenous racism and discrimination, as well as other forms of racism and discrimination. Our ReconciliACTION efforts also aim to uphold the right to self-determination for Indigenous Peoples when accessing the Canadian health system. Upholding this right is a critical indicator of health for Indigenous Peoples, and it challenges anti-Indigenous structures in the health care system.
The CMA is also advocating for systemic changes that will address anti-Indigenous racism. For example, pan-Canadian licensure is one way to ensure consistency will be present in all Canadian jurisdictions when it comes to upholding the CMA Code of Ethics and Professionalism.
The CMA reiterates its support for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples and reaffirms its commitment to condemn all forms of anti-Indigenous racism.
Dr. Joss Reimer
President, CMA