May 4, 2021
BCCNM and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) are collaborating on drafting a standard to set expectations for registrants for providing culturally safe and humble care to Indigenous clients.
Why do we need a new standard?
On Oct. 24, 2019, the Government of British Columbia passed
Bill 41, which recognizes and protects the rights of Indigenous Peoples. The legislation required the development of an action plan to achieve alignment with the
United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process. This legislation is supported by the
National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action reports, which have been significant contributors to our knowledge and understanding of the violence and racism experienced by Indigenous people in Canada.
On Nov. 30, 2020, Health Minister Adrian Dix released findings from an independent review, led by Dr. Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, into the extent of Indigenous-specific racism in B.C.'s health-care system. The findings released in this report, titled
In Plain Sight, showed the devastating impact Indigenous-specific racism has on health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples in BC.
Where are we in the process?
The college's mandate is to protect the safety of B.C. patients and clients by ensuring registrants meet expected standards of practice and conduct. BCCNM acknowledges that systemic and inter-personal racism against Indigenous Peoples exists in the B.C. health care system and we recognize that our existing standards have not adequately set clear expectations for nurses and midwives.
BCCNM has committed to taking swift and meaningful action to implement the recommendations put forth in the
In Plain Sight report. This includes
drafting principles for a new
Cultural Safety and Humility practice standard to clearly communicate the College's expectations for registrants to provide culturally safe care to Indigenous clients.
As we develop a draft standard over the next few months, we recognize the importance of engaging with Indigenous Peoples from all groups (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) throughout the development process to ensure a standard is created with input from those whom it is meant to serve.
Next steps
BCCNM will continue to engage with key audiences and partners over the coming weeks. BCCNM will be meeting with Indigenous nurses and midwives, educators, employers, and others.
BCCNM anticipates this standard will be ready in late Fall 2021. There will be opportunities for registrants to provide feedback on the draft standard in late summer/early fall.
Questions?
Please email
culturalsafety@bccnm.ca.