On Monday, November 30, 2020, the Ministry of Health released the report In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination in B.C. Health Care. The report, which is available in full and summary versions, makes 24 recommendations to support changes in the health care system to eliminate Indigenous-specific racism, systemic racism, prejudice, and discrimination.
CSHBC recognizes that there is a lot of work to be done to support a culturally safe health care system, and that as a health regulator, the College is in a position to influence the professions we regulate, as well as the broader health care system. Together with the Colleges of the BC Health Regulators (BCHR), First Nations Health Authority, the Ministry of Health, and other partners, the College is committed to moving forward with this work.
Where CSHBC is today
CSHBC is a signatory to the Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility. We have taken steps to integrate the principles of cultural safety and humility into our organization. This is reflected in our current Strategic Plan and Registrant Code of Ethics. We have also made cultural safety training a priority for College administration. See our Cultural Safety and Humility webpage for more information about CSHBC’s commitment in this regard.
What action will CSHBC take in the future
While we have taken positive actions towards cultural safety and humility, we acknowledge a pressing need to do more. CSHBC staff and our Board of Directors will review the findings and recommendations of In Plain Sight in detail and identify areas in which we can incorporate these into our work. We will invite new ideas and opportunities to work towards the goals of cultural safety and humility and health care.
We welcome your feedback – if you have any questions or comments on ways to support cultural safety and humility, please contact the College.