Our why
The First Nations health structure belongs to First Nations in BC. The FNHC has been steering the transformation of health and wellness of our people for over 15 years.
Our History
Our journey began in 2007 following the signing of the Transformative Change Accord by First Nations, the Province of BC and the Government of Canada to address health disparities between First Nations and other BC residents.
Mandate
Along with implementing the Tripartite agreements, part of the FNHC's original mandate was to oversee the transition to a new FNHA created in 2013. With the approval of the 10-Year Strategy on the Social Determinants of Health in 2023, the FNHC is moving from transfer to health system transformation.
Extended engagement leading up to Gathering Wisdom XIV in 2027 will inform a resolution for Chiefs and leaders to vote on new Terms of Reference for the FNHC, including the Council's mandate and structure. The FNHC needs clear direction from Chiefs and leaders on this governance issue, building on the feedback from the 2023 FNHC Evaluation.
Read the evaluation report here.
Vision
Work of the FNHC and its pillar partners, the FNHA and FNHDA, is rooted in a shared vision: Healthy, Self-Determining and Vibrant BC First Nations Children, Families and Communities.
Our Seven Directives
The FNHA, FNHC and FNHDA receive direction from First Nation Chiefs and leaders through community engagement across BC's five regions. First Nations developed these directives to describe the fundamental standards and instructions for our health governance relationship.
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Directive #1: Community-Driven, Nation-Based
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Directive #2: Increase First Nations Decision-Making and Control
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Directive #3: Improve Services
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Directive #4: Foster Meaningful Collaboration and Partnership
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Directive #5: Develop Human and Economic Capacity
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Directive #6: Be Without Prejudice to First Nations Interests
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Directive #7: Function at a High Operational Standard
Governance Structure
These diagrams illustrate the key health governance documents and perspectives of this structure created by BC First Nations, for First Nations.
