Ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, VPSA’s Engaging Physicians in Indigenous Cultural (EPIC) Safety Task Group is highlighting one iCON–VCH Indigenous Health Round each week. These free, physician-focused webinars support health-care professionals in ongoing learning about how to provide culturally safe care for Indigenous patients, families, and communities. Indigenous Health Rounds are accredited by UBC Continuing Professional Development (UBC CPD), allowing participating physicians to earn CPD credits.
Historical Perspectives and a New Path Forward
In an Indigenous Health Round held on March 27, 2025, Jacki McPherson, Health Director for the Penticton Indian Band, and Brenda Baptiste, Mental Health Substance Use Lead, shared how residential schools and Indian hospitals continue to affect Indigenous patients and families today.
Drawing on their families’ experiences, they explain how institutional harm can shape a patient’s trust in health care, their comfort with medical procedures, and the ability to communicate openly. A patient who says “I’m fine,” appears hesitant or has difficulty following a care plan may be responding to fear or past harm rather than being non-compliant.
The speakers encourage health-care providers to:
- Approach patients with curiosity, patience, and an understanding of the history they may carry.
- Clearly explain medications, procedures, and care plans rather than assuming understanding or trust.
- Welcome family members as important sources of support at all appointment and health milestones.
- Build relationships with local First Nations health leaders and bring services into communities whenever possible.
The round also highlights the Penticton Indian Band’s strengths-based work, including wraparound mental health and substance-use services, land-based programming and partnerships that bring health professionals into the community.
The effects of colonial systems remain present, but healing is happening through culture, community leadership, and meaningful partnership.
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