MAWIW is also collaborating with other Tribal Councils on health governance through a health transformation initiative. Health transformation is intended to support Indigenous self-determination through the creation of new or existing health governance structures (e.g., regional health authorities) that would assume control of the design, management, and delivery of health services from the federal government.
MAWIW's Vision for Health Transformation
Better indigenous-led health and wellness:
- Healthy people, kids thriving, elders feeling safe, community spirit
- Improved health outcomes for our people
- Investing in health for generations to come
The mission is to create a culturally appropriate, high quality health services system for Mawiw and WTCI communities through ownership, management and delivery of our own Indigenous-led health programs and services.
Guiding Principles
Holistic Approach—We aim for an overall balance in wellness that honor the whole person, including their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual elements.
Building on Strengths—We honor and make use of the gifts that each person, community, organization brings for the benefit of all.
Appreciation—We demonstrate appreciation and respect for each other – as individuals, families, communities, and as unique cultural groups.
Humility—We acknowledge that we are all on a learning journey. We understand that we will make mistakes which will acknowledge and fix.
Cultural Ways—Our processes are grounded in Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqey cultures. The strengths of our cultures are helping heal from intergenerational trauma.
Nation Rebuilding—We are authors of our own destinies, guided by our sacred teachings; the institutions we create will reflect our Mi’kmaq and Wolastoqey values and beliefs.
Short-Term Goals
- Creating and managing an interim health transformation governance structure.
- Conducting a health transformation analysis and service delivery improvement process in preparation for negotiations.
- Engaging and communicating with member communities so they feel informed and engaged.
- Monitoring and overseeing the initiative and securing adequate funds to grow the pathway (2022-23 and beyond).
