Mission Statement
"James Smith Health Staff will work together as a team in the spirit of co-operation, mutual support and respect to provide holistic health care services to the best of our abilities."
Philosophy, Values and Principles
James Smith Band Government views on Treaty Rights and Principles Related to Health Care were described in the 2005 Community Health Plan and updated in 2012 by the JS Health Committee. They are as follows:
The Treaties provide that "medicines" will be supplied "free of charge" and that medical treatment would be provided "to all Indians who might be in need or require them". Through this Treaty process the Indian Nations agreed to cede certain lands for use and settlement in return for specific guarantees. These guarantees are our Treaty Rights. The Treaties gave Canada use and benefits of land for political, social, economic and spiritual development. The Treaties reserved lands and resources for continued Indian use and economic Rights to Indian Nations to ensure continuation of strong Indian government.
Vision and Goals
The Programs and services delivered by James Smith Health are based on the following:
- James Smith First Nation has control and jurisdiction over the health of its membership under treaty and Aboriginal rights.
- The Federal trust and responsibility will be maintained by the James Smith First Nation.
- There is Federal obligation to provide a comprehensive Health Service which is identified and included in any and all agreements made between the James Smith First Nation and the Federal Government (Health Canada)
- Traditional health practices must be accommodated and respected.
- All band Members are entitled to access to Health services at all times.
- Standards for service and staff will be equal or superior to the existing standards.
- The mental, emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of each individual is essential to health-not only the absence of disease.