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.

Dr. Danielle Martin tells the story of her grandfather, Jacques Elie Shilton, a hard-working Egyptian immigrant who, months after arriving in Montreal with 10 family members, suffered a devastating heart attack.

The CanMEDS Framework is a comprehensive competency-based model designed to outline the essential skills and abilities required by physicians to effectively address the healthcare needs of their patients. Developed by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, CanMEDS encompasses seven key roles that are integral to the practice of medicine: Medical Expert, Communicator, Collaborator, Leader, Health Advocate, Scholar, and Professional.

For premed students aspiring to become future physicians, familiarizing themselves with the CanMEDS Framework can provide a clear understanding of the expectations and responsibilities associated with the medical profession in Canada. By exploring each of the seven roles, students can develop a well-rounded perspective on the various aspects of medical practice and identify areas for growth and development.

The CanMEDS Framework can help premed students in the following ways:

1. Medical Expert: Students can learn to integrate their knowledge, clinical skills, and professional attitudes to provide high-quality patient care.
2. Communicator: The framework emphasizes the importance of effective communication with patients, families, and colleagues, which is essential for building trust and ensuring optimal care.
3. Collaborator: Students can develop the ability to work effectively within interprofessional healthcare teams, fostering a collaborative approach to patient care.
4. Leader: The framework encourages the development of leadership skills, including decision-making, resource allocation, and healthcare system navigation.
5. Health Advocate: Students can learn to advocate for individual patients and broader community health issues, promoting the well-being of the populations they serve.
6. Scholar: The framework highlights the value of lifelong learning, research, and knowledge dissemination in the medical profession.
7. Professional: Students can cultivate a strong sense of ethics, accountability, and commitment to patients, society, and the medical profession.

In summary, the CanMEDS Framework offers premed students a roadmap to developing the essential competencies for successful medical practice. By embracing these roles and honing their skills, future physicians can better meet the healthcare needs of their patients and contribute to the overall improvement of patient care.