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Policy framework

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Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. and Bimaadzwin collaborated with national health policy experts to develop an Indigenous Health Policy Framework (IHPF) that addresses the lack of formal Indigenous health policy in Canada. This guideline policy document reflects the shared values of Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd., Bimaadzwin and Indigenous Peoples in Canada. It details strategic objectives and principles to support ongoing investments in Indigenous health and wellness.

Through the IHPF, Indigenous communities have access to an innovative health project fund called PATHWAYS – Indigenous Health Collaborations. PATHWAYS was established to advance health pilot projects that empower Indigenous communities to improve health outcomes. It is based on the principles of nationhood, with individual Indigenous communities taking the lead in determining how their communities will engage with partners to address health care disparities and accelerate guideline-based treatments.

By partnering with Indigenous communities, companies like Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. are taking an active role in advancing health and wellness for one of Canada’s most vulnerable populations. Together, we can explore what’s possible and empower individuals and communities to work towards improved outcomes.

  • PATHWAYS is a collaboration between Boehringer Ingelheim Canada Ltd. and Bimaadzwin, an Indigenous advocacy group with guidance from various Indigenous national health policy experts. The collaboration has developed an Indigenous Health Policy Framework (IHPF) to address Canada's lack of formal Indigenous health policy. The framework is a strategic guide to support ongoing investments in Indigenous health, including addressing the social determinants of health and leveraging traditional approaches. PATHWAYS goal is to advance pilot health projects that aim to improve type 2 diabetes and COPD and empower Indigenous communities to improve their health and wellness.

  • It is well known that Indigenous Peoples suffer at a significantly higher rate from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and mental health. Many communities tend to be remote, and access to care and specialists is difficult. Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd., Bimaadzwin (an Indigenous organization consulting partner) and an Indigenous Advisory Circle have been collaborating over the past three years to develop a Health Policy Framework to help address needs in this underserviced population.

  • The program, called PATHWAYS, is Indigenous-led and Indigenous-informed. PATHWAYS’ vision is to close the health gap with Indigenous communities while focusing on relationship building and a positive, sustainable future for all partners. The program’s core principles are: upholding the right to health and access to services, equity in opportunities, nation building and reconciliation, and self governance.

  • In 2021, Boehringer Ingelheim Canada invested in four Indigenous community pilot projects, each focusing on diabetes. Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations in British Columbia, Samson Cree Nation in Alberta, Manitoba Metis Federation and Wagmatcook First Nation in Nova Scotia are our inaugural sites. To date, over 2,600 people have had the opportunity to participate in these four pilots and numerous other community pilots across Canada. PATHWAYS will be expanding in 2023 as some communities will be continuing their initiative, new pilot sites will be joining and we are expanding into progressive fibrosing interstitial lung disease (PF-ILD), as the Indigenous Advisory Circle has identified a need in this therapeutic area.

  • An Indigenous Steering Advisory Circle aided in the selection of pilots and The Assembly of First Nations’ Resolutions drove the focus of Pathways on COPD and Diabetes

  • Indigenous communities are rich and vibrant but are also an underserved population in terms of access to healthcare. With up to three times the national rates of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and COPD, Boehringer Ingelheim Canada wanted to help close the healthcare gap for Indigenous Peoples.

  • Boehringer Ingelheim Canada partnered with Indigenous consultants, health policy leaders and community members to develop a framework for collaboration with Indigenous communities that provides ongoing support and investment in Indigenous health and wellness initiatives across Canada

  • Indigenous communities face a series of health disparities rooted across several common, fundamental factors, including poverty, crowded and inadequate housing, food insecurity, unsanitary water, and inequitable health care access. These issues contribute to Indigenous Peoples struggling disproportionately against depleted mental health and many serious, chronic illnesses.

  • To receive regular updates on the PATHWAYS initiatives and projects, stay connected through our website and social media platforms.

  • Boehringer Ingelheim Canada Ltd. and Bimaadzwin engaged with Indigenous health policy leaders to develop the Indigenous Health Policy Framework (IHPF). The framework addresses the lack of formal Indigenous health policy in Canada. These guidelines establish terms of reference for collaborating with Indigenous communities to explore new approaches to health and wellness. This document reflects the shared values of Boehringer Ingelheim Canada Ltd., Bimaadzwin and Indigenous Peoples. It outlines the strategic objectives and principles to support ongoing investments in Indigenous health.

  • To get involved with the PATHWAYS initiatives, stay connected for upcoming projects and events through our website and social media platforms.

  • If you have questions about this initiative, please contact Boehringer Ingelheim Canada Ltd. Please fill out a form [LINK to contact us page], and we will respond as soon as possible.