Grant: Doctoral Research Award -PA: Research in First Nations, Métis &/or Inuit Health

While there is growing recognition that social structures perpetuate unequal life chances for Indigenous children, there is a persistent lack of in-depth investigation regarding the ways in which institutional policies and health practitioner knowledges contribute to differential care and access to health care resources. Research needs to examine how health care is delivered to Indigenous communities, in order to develop innovative and responsive interventions that can improve health outcomes for Indigenous children. First, however, researchers need to build partnerships with Indigenous communities and clinicians in order to create the foundation upon which changes can be introduced. This study will identify successful approaches to relationship building with the purpose of creating accountable, respectful, and reciprocal partnerships. This research will also examine how health care policies influence health professionals' clinical care for Indigenous children. The research design will be co-developed with Indigenous community members and partners, ensuring that each stage of the process is conducted respectfully and collaboratively. The research will occur in two phases. Phase one will identify Indigenous communities and organizations who have identified the need to improve the health of Indigenous children. Consultation with these organizations will seek to discern: (1) What do health researchers need to know in order to work in effective partnerships with Indigenous communities and partners? and (2) What are the main concerns and priorities regarding child health for this particular community? Phase two will build upon phase one insights by working in partnership with Indigenous community members, clinicians, and health care leaders, to identify barriers to child health equity. The multiple perspectives will highlight the processes that contribute to unfair differences in Indigenous child health outcomes and identify strategies for dismantling them.