Indigenous Representation in Healthcare

Indigenous representation in healthcare is essential for building trust, improving patient outcomes, and creating care environments that respect Indigenous experiences and knowledge. Yet across Canada, Indigenous peoples remain underrepresented throughout the health workforce.

According to the Canadian Indigenous Nurses Association, Indigenous people make up about 3% of Canada’s nursing workforce, while representing nearly 5% of the national population. Although limited data exist on Indigenous physicians, current reports show that representation across medical professions remains significantly below population levels.

Increasing Indigenous presence in healthcare is not just about representation, it’s about self-determination and equity. Culturally safe, community-driven care grows when Indigenous voices lead decision-making, research, and clinical practice. Change begins when health systems reflect the people they serve.

Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing. Indigenous Nursing Student and Faculty Survey Report, 2022–2023. Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing, 2023.

Exner-Pirot, Heather. Aboriginal Nursing in Canada. University of Saskatchewan College of Nursing, 2018.