Northern Health launches equity and inclusion survey

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northern Health has launched a new survey to understand the experiences of underrepresented groups within health care and the barriers they face. 

On April 15th, Northern Health’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) department launched the IDEA survey. 

“Northern Health recognizes that persistent systemic barriers, biases and inequities continue to impact Indigenous peoples, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities and complex health conditions, immigrants and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals,” it said in a press release. 

Northern Health says the survey is designed to gather meaningful feedback from individuals and communities across the Peace River region. It also says the input from the survey will help shape future strategies, policies and programs to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for patients and staff.

Between April 15th and July 22nd, 2026, residents will be able to share their thoughts and personal experiences related to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility at Northern Health in the survey. 

According to Northern Health, the survey is important given the challenges faced by residents in the region. 

“Northern B.C. spans over 600,000 square kilometers, presenting unique challenges such as vast geography, limited resources, diverse cultural needs and complex histories,” the release said. “Participation in the survey will ensure diverse voices from remote and rural areas are heard and directly inform service design.”

Northern Health says the responses from the survey will help:

• Inform the development of a three-year IDEA strategy
• Guide annual action plans focused on improving service delivery and workplace culture
• Shape policy development 
• Be shared through validation sessions to ensure transparency and accountability 

Anyone with questions or accessibility requests regarding the survey can be directed to idea@northernhealthbc.ca.

The survey results will be published publicly on October 14th, 12 weeks after the survey closes on July 22nd.