Indigenous Females Off-Reserve Face Disparities in Healthcare: New Research
Indigenous females living off reserve in Canada experience significant disparities in healthcare access, use, and unmet needs compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts, according to a recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ).
The study analyzed data from the Canadian Community Health Survey between 2015 and 2020, including the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers examined the healthcare experiences of 2902 First Nations, 2345 Métis, 742 Inuit, and 74,760 non-Indigenous females of reproductive age (15-55 years).
The findings highlight the alarming health disparities faced by Indigenous females. Sebastian Srugo, a researcher with the Public Health Agency of Canada, noted that First Nations, Métis, and Inuit females living off-reserve reported higher morbidity rates and encountered multiple inequalities in accessing healthcare.
Specifically, the study revealed that fewer Indigenous females had access to a regular healthcare provider, particularly in the territories and Prairie regions. Additionally, Indigenous females experienced longer wait times for appointments, and they were more likely to utilize hospital services for non-urgent care.
The authors of the study, including patients and members of community organizations on the Indigenous Advisory Committee, identified racism and inequity as pervasive factors that amplify these disparities in healthcare access and contribute to higher rates of illness among Indigenous females. One notable issue is the lack of consistent access to a primary care provider, which hinders the continuity of necessary healthcare.
To address these disparities, the Indigenous advisors suggest that Canada should prioritize the recruitment and integration of accessible and culturally competent healthcare providers. They also emphasize the need to gather more comprehensive data on Indigenous health to bridge existing gaps in understanding.
Moving forward, future research should continue monitoring these disparities over time while focusing on gathering crucial data about Indigenous health on reserves.
Overall, this research sheds light on the pressing need to address the healthcare disparities faced by Indigenous females in Canada. By promoting improved access to care, culturally competent providers, and reducing systemic barriers, steps can be taken towards achieving equitable healthcare outcomes for all.
