Canadian Medical Association Foundation donates $1 million to Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada

August 24, 2021

The National Consortium for Indigenous Medical Education (NCIME) would like to congratulate the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada (IPAC) on the recent announcement of a $1 million grant from the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) Foundation. The grant will support capacity building within IPAC and the development of a national formalized mentorship program for Indigenous medical learners.

“We recognize that a national mentorship program is but one piece of what students are telling us they need, but we strongly feel that it will have a significant impact. Together with the work of NCIME, IMSAC and Canadian medical schools, we see a bright future for Indigenous learners and physicians, as well as for the health of Indigenous Peoples in Canada,” says Melanie Osmack, IPAC Acting Director.

“For decades, IPAC has focused on supporting Indigenous medical students, residents and physicians in their chosen career paths,” says Dr. Nel Wieman, IPAC President. “This funding opportunity will ensure IPAC’s sustainability and increase capacity, improving our ability to respond to the diverse needs of our membership.”

The NCIME is proud to work in partnership with IPAC to support learners and create change in the Canadian health care system. IPAC is one of the five partner organizations of the Consortium and leads the NCIME Working Group for Indigenous Physician Wellness and Joy in Work. We look forward to continuing our work with all partners to advance initiatives that support Indigenous medical learners and physicians and lead to higher quality, culturally safe care for First Nations, Metis and Inuit Peoples.