A recent study conducted by the Public Health Agency of Canada highlights the role of racism and the lack of primary care providers in contributing to poorer health outcomes among Indigenous women and girls from off-reserve First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities. The study underlines the disparities in health between these groups and non-Indigenous females, revealing higher rates of diagnosed chronic diseases and mental health issues. These disparities are rooted in historical factors such as colonial practices, forced sterilization, and the destruction of traditional lands.
Data from the annual Canadian Community Health Survey between 2015 and 2020 were utilized for this study, encompassing around 6,000 individuals from the Indigenous groups and 74,760 non-Indigenous females within the reproductive age range. The findings indicate that Indigenous females face delays in receiving primary care, are more reliant on hospital services for non-urgent care, and have fewer consultations with dental professionals.
Christina Ricci, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of understanding these gaps and taking steps towards equitable health care to address them. She noted the need for regular access to high-quality care and the challenges that Indigenous females often encounter in obtaining such care. The study underscores the urgent need for health-care reconciliation to ensure that Indigenous women and girls have access to appropriate care and support throughout their lives.
The study’s lead researcher, Sebastian Srugo, highlighted the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women, even when comparing those with similar demographics to non-Indigenous counterparts. This raises questions about systemic racism and a lack of trust in the health-care system. The aspect of racial discrimination was not the focus of the study, but it was inferred based on input from the Indigenous advisory group.
Women who are pregnant or have recently given birth are particularly vulnerable, and these challenges can have intergenerational impacts on their children’s health. The lack of access to permanent health-care providers poses hurdles during pregnancy, affecting aspects like gynecological appointments.
The study’s findings point to the importance of primary care providers in supporting women’s reproductive decisions and addressing various health conditions. Despite previous research showing poorer health outcomes for Indigenous females, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by different Indigenous groups. The research also underscores the need for targeted programs and the integration of Indigenous practices in health care to address these disparities effectively.
