We are excited to announce the establishment of the Indigenous Health Research Unit at Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI), a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing Indigenous health research, fostering collaboration as well as improving health outcomes for Indigenous communities. This new unit will be promoting Indigenous health equity, cultural safety and self-determination through community-driven research initiatives and meaningful partnerships.
Often seen as a universal right of all Canadians, accessible and culturally safe health care is out of reach for many Indigenous Peoples in the B.C. health care system, according to research led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Brittany Bingham.
“Historically, Indigenous women’s voices have not been heard in the health care system, and their opinions were not sought,” says Colleen Stewart, a researcher at the Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute (VCHRI). While much progress has been made, more work is needed to provide culturally appropriate care for Indigenous women.
