A new study is working to uncover the real healthcare challenges facing Indigenous people living off the reserve in New Brunswick. The project is called Our Health Counts. It is currently underway in Fredericton and expands to Saint John next year.

According to a recent report by CBC News, the University of New Brunswick is partnering with the Under One Sky Friendship Centre in Fredericton and the Menahqesk Wellness Circle in Saint John to gather crucial data.

Closing the Healthcare Gap

For decades, non status Indigenous people living outside First Nation communities have faced significant barriers to healthcare. Gary Gould is a member of the Wolastoqiyik Nation and president of the board at Under One Sky. He has advocated for these rights since the 1970s.

“Hopefully, as a result of this data based study, it will convince the policymakers that there needs to be special attention given to this community of Indigenous people,” Gould told CBC.

The core issue lies in how the government allocates resources. Neil Forbes is a UNB PhD student and member of the Saddle Lake Cree Nation. He helps lead the study. He points out that the Indian Act structures resources based on whether an individual lives on a reserve. When urban Indigenous people fail to get the support they need simply because of their postal code, it creates a massive public health issue.

What the Study Measures

Designed by Métis family physician Dr. Janet Smylie, the Our Health Counts study asks participants direct questions about their experiences. Researchers want to know what health conditions you have, whether you face discrimination when accessing services, and how the system needs to improve.

The survey also explores cultural safety. It asks participants about their connection to traditional ceremonies, traditional medicines, and whether they speak an Indigenous language. Forbes notes that many urban Indigenous people struggle to feel culturally safe when navigating the current healthcare system.

Proven Results in Other Cities

This research model already works. In 2021, the Our Health Counts study in Thunder Bay revealed that the city’s Indigenous population was two to four times higher than Statistics Canada estimated. That study also exposed severe gaps in care. Two out of five Indigenous adults reported unmet needs for mental health and substance use. Less than half reported having good oral health.

Forbes states the data in Fredericton and Saint John will reveal similar numbers.

Coming to Saint John

The study spans five years and is currently in its second year. Next year, the research team brings the project to Saint John to work directly with the Menahqesk Wellness Circle.

By gathering accurate numbers and documenting real experiences, the team plans to transform how urban Indigenous people access healthcare. As Gould notes, the ultimate goal is to ensure people receive services in a spirit of trust, respect, and friendship.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Our Health Counts study?

It is a research project designed to understand the healthcare barriers and unmet needs of urban Indigenous populations living off the reserve.

Who is running the study in New Brunswick?

The University of New Brunswick helps lead the study in partnership with the Under One Sky Friendship Centre in Fredericton and the Menahqesk Wellness Circle in Saint John.

When does the study reach Saint John?

The study is currently in its second year in Fredericton and expands to Saint John next year.

Why is this data necessary?

Current funding and resources under the Indian Act prioritize those living on a reserve. Accurate data proves the need for better services and policy changes for urban Indigenous communities.