CPSA’s Path to Truth and Reconciliation: where we’re going and why
Expected read and watch time: 60 minutes.
“Indigenous individuals have an equal right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health.”
Article 24, para 2
United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)
In 2020, several Indigenous physicians reached out to CPSA to act as Alberta's medical regulator to address healthcare inequities—specifically when it comes to racism and discrimination Indigenous people endure in the healthcare system. While this was not the first time CPSA was approached in our long history, it was when we fully heard the voices, experiences and lived realities of Indigenous Peoples who had been calling on us to act within our role as a regulatory body to effect much-needed change.
In the years since 2020, we have been guided by an Indigenous Advisory Circle to help us identify better ways to support First Nations, Métis and Inuit patients and guide the doctors—our regulated members—who provide their health care. This guidance has resulted in our Path to Truth and Reconciliation, which received support and acceptance from CPSA Council in March 2024.
Hear from Indigenous Advisory Circle members on our work together
We recently asked members of the Indigenous Advisory Circle to share their experiences guiding CPSA, co-creating the Path to Truth and Reconciliation, and why this is essential work. Watch the video below to hear what they shared.
CPSA’s Path to Truth and Reconciliation
The Path to Truth and Reconciliation demonstrates the actions CPSA will take—now and in the years ahead—to support culturally safe, high-quality and equitable health care for Indigenous people across Treaty 6, 7 and 8 territories. Along the way, we will seek ongoing input from First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples, regulated members and our health system partners to make sure our efforts are impactful and sustainable.
The Indigenous Advisory Circle co-created the Path with us, identifying and supporting each action outlined in this high-level overview. We’re grateful for their continued guidance, taking to heart their advice on each step as we move forward together.
