The Indian and Inuit Health Careers Program (IIHCP) was created in 1984 in response to the disproportionately low number of Aboriginal people working in health professions. It is intended to increase awareness of health career opportunities and foster an interest in health science studies in Aboriginal students. It also provides the supports necessary to ensure success for the students. The overall goal of the program is to increase the number of Aboriginal health professionals. The program is designed to address career needs at the national, regional and community levels.
The national component is administered through the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation (NAAF) on behalf of First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), Health Canada. This component offers health careers promotion as well as financial assistance in the form Bursaries and Scholarships, to pursue professional careers in the health sciences.
At the regional level, annual allocations are provided to deliver regionally based programs as well as community based programs, depending on regional priorities.
Prior to the 2008/2009 fiscal year, the IIHCP was administered in the Ontario region by the Aboriginal Recruitment Coordination Office (ARCO). As of the 2008/09 fiscal year, the program is being administered by each of the four (4) provincial territorial organizations (PTOs), including Nishnawbe Aski Nation. This change in administration will ensure that the funds allocated for community-based initiatives reach the NAN First Nations.
