Why Indigenous Self-Identification is important
Indigenous Self-Identification (ISI) data provides invaluable information that informs the development of culturally appropriate policy, programs, and services as well as tracking health outcomes, system performance and research. Without it, our systems do not know where, when, and how Indigenous Peoples are accessing health services making it difficult to address outstanding needs. Practice & Learning Update: Indigenous Patient Self ID memo
The data collected can help healthcare providers improve services for Indigenous patients and incorporate traditional health practices into health care delivery.
The need for Indigenous Self-Identification data is highlighted in recent reports, which call on health authorities and government to take action.
The government of British Columbia and health authorities have made commitments to taking the actions needed to improve health services to Indigenous Peoples through the:
As outlined in the 2020 report on anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare, In Plain Sight, Indigenous Peoples continue to be subjected to harmful stereotypes, discrimination and systemic racism that cause detrimental impacts to their health and wellbeing.