Despite Canada’s public health care system, there are still many here who are unable to access proper healthcare. To solve this, and to better the ability of First Nations and Inuit communities to sustain their own health care services, CESO runs a Health Management and Planning Program in
Canada in partnership with Health Canada’s First Nations and Inuit Health Care Branch (FNIHB). After a year-long pilot project, the organization has signed onto a five-year contract to strengthen individual and community abilities to create a sound foundation for a strong health care infrastructure.
CESO projects start in some communities after FNIHB suggests how that community could partner with CESO Advisors. In other cases, communities approach CESO asking for a helping hand. Advisors involved with these assignments are skilled in mentoring and health care, along with needs assessment and strategic planning. CESO focuses on providing mentoring, training and advisory support to those in the community who will be able to continue work in these areas while still following through with provincial, territorial and federal health priorities.
CESO and FNIHB improve management skills and ensure that policy and organizational development respect tradition and culture. Engaging the public and teaching leadership skills are also priorities.
Results
Among those mentored, confidence levels have improved, policies and plans have been created and revised, roles and responsibilities have been clearly defined, and decision making has improved, among other things. With time, we anticipate even greater improvements across the general health care infrastructure, bettering lives across Canada.