A journey of partnership: Transforming health care service delivery with First Nations in Northern BC

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the process of transformation in the Northern Health region of British Columbia (BC), Canada, based on a new relationship between governments of BC, Canada, and First Nations.

Design/methodology/approach

Written from the perspective of four key participants in the transformation process, this paper highlights the ways in which partnership has been integral to the transformation of health service delivery to First Nations communities in Northern BC.

Findings

In sharing their experiences with health system transformation through partnership, the authors of this paper hope to contribute to a growing set of promising practices as indigenous health service organizations take a greater role in health service provision, and non-indigenous health service organizations improve their understanding of and relationships with indigenous communities.

Originality/value

This paper outlines a unique and leading edge transformation in health service delivery, told from the perspectives of key partners involved in the transformation process.

Citation

Johnson, H., Ulrich, C., Cross, N. and Greenwood, M. (2016), "A journey of partnership: Transforming health care service delivery with First Nations in Northern BC", International Journal of Health Governance, Vol. 21 No. 2, pp. 76-88. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHG-03-2016-0021