Indigenous Advisory Working Group

About the Indigenous Advisory Working Group

The Indigenous Advisory Working Group (IAWG) supports the commitment of CPSBC to ensure safe, high-quality, and culturally safe care for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people.

IAWG members provide expert Indigenous advice to CPSBC in fulfilling its regulatory mandate under the Health Professions and Occupations Act. They will advise on standards, bylaws, policies, and regulatory practices affecting Indigenous Peoples and support cultural safety, equity, and reconciliation.

IAWG members

The IAWG will consist of six core members and additional members as needed based on the scope and expertise required.

The IAWG reports to CPSBC’s registrar and CEO, who determines the composition of an IAWG, based on the scope of work and expertise required. It is an opportunity to build connections and influence meaningful change in health regulation in British Columbia.

  • representatives from First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities (distinction-based)
  • Indigenous physicians, health-care professionals, and Knowledge Holders
  • patient partners with lived/living experience
  • Elder Advisor to provide cultural guidance and ethical direction
  • patient partner(s) recruited with culturally safe processes
  • invited partner(s) (as required) to bring knowledge while upholding Indigenous leadership

Roles and responsibilities

The IAWG advises on regulatory standards, cultural safety requirements, Indigenous rights, and appropriate consultation processes. Its roles and responsibilities include but are not limited to: 

  • provide an Advisory Circle function
  • apply an Indigenous lens to CPSBC standard and bylaw development
  • provide analysis and recommendations that decolonize and indigenize
  • ensure Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and rights inform CPSBC’s regulatory frameworks
  • provide guidance on CPSBC policy, practice, and measurement. 

Time commitment

The IAWG meets a minimum of three times per year. The meetings may be virtual, hybrid, or in-person, and will be grounded in ceremony.

IAWG members are provided with an honorarium for their time and contributions. 

Recruitment

Applicants must self-identify as First Nation, Métis or Inuit and be residents of BC. The skills and qualifications we are seeking include:

  • lived experience as an Indigenous person
  • board and/or committee experience
  • background in health administration or health policy
  • familiarity with BC’s health regulatory framework
  • background and experience as a health-care professional
  • Knowledge Holder
  • community engagement experience

We recognize that experience may come in different forms. We encourage you to apply if this opportunity interests you and you don’t meet every qualification. 

Interested applicants may submit their cover letter and resume to nominations@cpsbc.ca

Expressions of interests will be accepted until July 8, 2026.