New health projects empower Indigenous communities to address chronic diseases

Sunday, 25 October 2020 10:22.AM

Indigenous communities burdened with up to three times the national rates of chronic diseases now have access to an innovative health project fund established by Bimaadzwin and Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. These community-driven pilot projects – specifically aimed at reducing type 2 diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – are intended to empower Nations in improving health and wellness.

The Indigenous Health Pilot Project is a collaboration between Boehringer Ingelheim Canada, Bimaadzwin and Indigenous health policy leaders. Funding is available to advance national health and wellness projects that go "beyond the pill" in addressing type 2 diabetes and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among Canada's Indigenous Peoples. Further investments in other chronic illnesses are planned following the successful launch of four initial pilot projects.

"Our vision is empowerment – building relationships between Indigenous communities, the private sector and other interested partners through involvement in pilot projects with equal participation at all steps," explains Isadore Day, CEO, Bimaadzwin. "We need more partnerships like this to tackle the monumental endeavour of improving health outcomes and quality of life for our Indigenous communities."

With guidance from a national steering committee, the team aspires to close the gap in health care disparities for Canada's Indigenous Peoples who are significantly disadvantaged by a high incidence of chronic illnesses and depleted mental health.

SOURCE: Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd.