The development of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis medical workforce

Abstract

Indigenous people make up more than 4% of the Canadian population, but less than 0.25% of the physicians. National initiatives are being undertaken to increase the representation of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people in the medical workforce. This is a necessary step in developing a health care system that is culturally safe and responsive - one step towards equity in health for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people. Initiatives focus on recruitment and retention of indigenous physicians, and development of a curriculum framework to ensure all physicians can provide culturally safe care.