Background
Over the last several years, the provinces, territories, federal government and Aboriginal leaders have noted that the health care system is not adequately meeting the needs of Canadians and to a greater degree, the needs of First Nations, Inuit (FNIH) and Métis. Of particular concern has been the fact that the health care system’s ability to provide high quality, effective, patient-centred health services depends on the right mix of health care providers, with the right skills, in the right place, at the right time.
Recent studies have shown that all jurisdictions in Canada are presently experiencing shortages of health care providers. The shortage of health care workers is a national and international issue, but the shortage is particularly acute in First Nations and Inuit communities. Additionally, Aboriginal people are under-represented in all health care fields, compared to the general population.
To ensure that First Nations, Inuit (FNIH) and Métis have access to the health providers they need both now and in the future, Health Canada created an Aboriginal Health Human Resources Initiative (AHHRI) in 2005. The program was originally set to expire in 2010, but has now been extended through 2015 due to encouraging results.
Objectives
The objectives of the Aboriginal Health Human Resources Initiative are:
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