International Union for Circumpolar Health Ministry of Public Health and Social Development of RF Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Medical Sciences Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences Medical Polar Fund “Science” The Northern Forum

Abstracts

Public health

Objectives. The objectives of this project were to: identify the continuing care needs of First Nations and Inuit in Canada; identify the services available to meet the needs; and identify ways to address the gaps. Continuing care refers to the range of home or facility based medical and social services for individuals with diminished capacity for self-care who require assistance in activities of daily living.

Study Design. In accordance with First Nations and Inuit ethical research frameworks, this project involved collaborative partnerships with First Nations and Inuit organizations. Existing knowledge and practice from First Nations and Inuit was compared with that of other environments and combined with empirical data gathered at the community level.

Methods

1. A review of published and unpublished literature on continuing care services and needs of Indigenous peoples worldwide, enhanced by a review of demographic and health status data for Inuit and First Nations in Canada.

2. Interviews with health care personnel at the community, regional and national levels across Canada.

3. Community-based empirical research studies in 8 First Nations and 3 Inuit communities. The three studies gathered information regarding individuals’: assessed functional status level; health; care/service requirements and preferences; contributions of formal and family caregivers; and housing situation. The sample included individuals of all ages receiving services either at home or in an facility.

4. A synthesis report presenting analysis of the findings in terms of their policy and cost implications and input for a nation-wide projection regarding the need for these services.

Results.The significant needs for continuing care in First Nations and Inuit communities, although having some similarities with other communities in Canada, have differences that need to be taken into account in policy development.

Conclusions. This information will be used to inform future decisions regarding policy, program development and funding and resource allocation for continuing care services for First Nations and Inuit.

Note. Abstracts are published in author's edition

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Last update: 06-Jul-2012 (11:52:05)