The NCCAH is making significant strides in support of a renewed public health system that is inclusive and respectful of diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Our collaborations in knowledge sharing extend beyond traditional boundaries – institutional, jurisdictional, geographical and professional – to address the multi-faceted and structural issues underpinning Aboriginal health. We continue to strengthen the links between evidence, knowledge, practice and policy in support of the public health goals of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

Established in 2004 by the Government of Canada, and funded through the Public Health Agency of Canada, the NCCAH is one of six centres in the National Collaborating Centres for Public Health program, each focusing on a different aspect of public health. Together, the centres help improve response to chronic disease and injury, infectious diseases, environmental health and health disparities.    

Now in its fifth year, the NCCAH is building upon a strong foundation in its key program areas of the social determinants of Aboriginal health addressing underlying causes of illness and disease, and child and youth health. Our innovative partnerships have helped garner national and international public attention for Aboriginal child health issues, facilitated Indigenous voice in global initiatives on a social determinants approach to health, and ensured broad reach among medical professionals, educators, communities and a wide variety of organizations. As we look ahead, we are responding to new and emerging priorities, with a growing emphasis on Aboriginal environmental health issues of significant concern to communities.

Our community-centered, holistic and strength-based approaches to health are critical to upholding the credibility the Centre has established with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities, with the public health system, among educational institutions, with government stakeholders and more. In 2010, the NCCAH is poised to enter the next five years committed to moving the agenda forward in support of the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Canada.