Recent developments in the search for the children of residential schools have shown that there is much work to be done in terms of truth and reconciliation. Medical schools are similarly placing a higher emphasis on justice for indigenous communities. It's crucial that all applicants understand the Calls to Action, the disparities that indigenous communities face, and how to improve the healthcare system for indigenous peoples.

The Indigenous Health Calls to Action is a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's recommendations for redressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities in Canada. This initiative aims to improve the healthcare system for Indigenous peoples and address the disparities they face. As future physicians, pre-med students must understand the Calls to Action to better serve Indigenous communities.

The Calls to Action cover various aspects, including child welfare, education, language and culture, health, and justice. It seeks to address the historical context of residential schools and their legacy on Indigenous peoples. Some health-related recommendations include acknowledging the current state of Indigenous health, establishing measurable goals for closing gaps in health outcomes, and providing sustainable funding for healing centers.

For pre-med students, understanding the Calls to Action can help them prepare for a more inclusive and culturally-sensitive healthcare practice. Medical and nursing schools are encouraged to require courses that deal with Indigenous health issues, history, and the legacy of residential schools. Such training should include intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights, and anti-racism.

By being aware of these Calls to Action, pre-med students can contribute to a more equitable healthcare system, addressing the unique needs of Indigenous communities. This knowledge will allow future physicians to provide better care to Indigenous patients, understand the historical context of their health disparities, and work collaboratively with Indigenous healers and Elders when appropriate. Overall, understanding the Indigenous Health Calls to Action is crucial for pre-med students to become well-rounded and compassionate physicians capable of serving diverse populations.

When we need help, we count on doctors to put us back together. But what happens when doctors fall apart?

Funny, fresh, and deeply affecting, We Are All Perfectly Fine is the story of a married mother of three on the brink of personal and professional collapse who attends rehab with a twist: a meditation retreat for burned-out doctors.

"One of the premiere books on what it means to be a physician and the toll it has on the soul. If you want to talk about burnout and the hard truth of being a doctor, read this. Learn from Jillian Horton, a Canadian internist, and her struggles in the Canadian medical system from the outside and inside." - Eric

We Are All Perfectly Fine: A Memoir of Love, Medicine and Healing, penned by Dr. Jillian Horton, is an insightful and candid account of a physician's journey through the challenges and pressures of the medical profession. The book documents her experience at a meditation retreat for burned-out doctors, where she uncovers the systemic issues that contribute to physician burnout and the importance of compassion in healing oneself and others.

For premed students, this memoir provides an honest look at the often unspoken emotional and mental toll that a career in medicine can take on healthcare professionals. By delving into Dr. Horton's personal struggles and those of her fellow retreat attendees, the book sheds light on the rarely acknowledged stresses that can lead to depression and even suicide among physicians. Through this understanding, future doctors can better prepare themselves for the reality of practicing medicine and the importance of self-care and emotional well-being.

The memoir also emphasizes the need for physicians to embrace compassion, not just in treating patients but also in caring for themselves. By acknowledging and addressing the challenging emotions that come with the medical profession, doctors can find a path to healing and resilience.

In essence, We Are All Perfectly Fine serves as a powerful reminder to premed students of the importance of self-awareness, self-compassion, and emotional intelligence in their journey to becoming competent and empathetic physicians. By learning from Dr. Horton's experiences, students can cultivate a greater understanding of the challenges and rewards of a career in medicine and strive to prioritize their own well-being along with that of their patients.

Understanding the difference between equity and equality is crucial for premed students aspiring to become compassionate healthcare professionals. While equality refers to treating everyone the same, equity focuses on providing individuals with the resources they need to be successful, acknowledging their unique starting points.

The concept of fairness can be complex. We often believe treating everyone the same is fair, but this approach only works if everyone starts from the same place. In reality, people have different backgrounds, experiences, and needs that must be addressed to ensure a level playing field.

As future medical professionals, adopting an equity mindset will help you better serve diverse patient populations. Remember, providing the same treatment to everyone may not be fair if their individual needs are not considered. It's essential to tailor care according to each patient's unique circumstances to promote optimal health outcomes.

Let's be inspired by the quote from NEHI Dasani: "Equality is giving everyone a shoe, but equity is giving everyone a shoe that fits." Embrace the concept of equity in your medical journey, ensuring every patient receives the care they need to flourish, regardless of their starting point.