Grant: Master's Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Disproportionately high rates of chronic diseases and other health concerns among First Nations populations have been highlighted in research and the popular press. Generally, individual lifestyle factors become the focus of health interventions; yet, these disparities are often rooted in social and political factors that have a profound influence on the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities. The proposed research will bring to light health governance as a key determinant of health among First Nations people across Canada, focusing on power imbalances and structural barriers that are manifested in the organization of Canada's health care system. This research will involve a systematic literature review of current government approaches to managing, administering, and funding health care programs and services to First Nations communities, and compare these to the strategies employed by First Nations communities, themselves. Critical analysis of the data will investigate how government approaches and community-driven initiatives facilitate or hinder the health of First Nations peoples. Findings from this research will help generate recommendations for both the Canadian government and First Nations communities to work towards improving the health of First Nations people. These recommendations will compliment and build upon existing guidelines for the roles and responsibilities of both the government and First Nations communities. The ultimate goal of this research is to promote a shared vision for equitable health for all Canadians, with particular emphasis on ensuring First Nations people have an equal opportunity to attain the highest standard of health that is to be expected in Canada.