First Nations joins CAN Health Network

TORONTO – The Coordinated Accessible National (CAN) Health Network announced a new partnership with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), marking its first Indigenous healthcare provider, a significant milestone to advance the Network’s mission to drive economic prosperity and better health for all and advance healthcare innovation for First Nations people in British Columbia and across Canada.

“Joining the CAN Health Network enables the First Nations Health Authority to amplify First Nations voices in healthcare innovation,” said Richard Jock (pictured), chief executive officer, FNHA. “Through this partnership, we’re increasing opportunities for First Nations-led approaches to enhancing access to healthcare. We are also helping to build the foundations for a system that is culturally safe, inclusive and respectful of First Nations peoples in British Columbia and Canada.”

“Our government’s $42 million investment in the CAN Health Network is helping empower homegrown innovators who are transforming our healthcare system,” said Rechie Valdez, minister of Small Business. “By bringing together visionary entrepreneurs, healthcare leaders, and government partners, we are building a stronger, more resilient Canada alongside CAN Health.

Dr. Dante Morra, founder and chair, CAN Health Network, said the addition of the First Nations Health Authority to the Network is an important step in our commitment to expand our vision and mission across the country and support Indigenous communities across Canada.”

He added, “Since its launch in 2019, the CAN Health Network has welcomed 42 leading healthcare providers or ‘Edges’, supported more than 74 companies, generated more than $550 million to date and created more than 2,000 jobs across the nation. The CAN Health Network unifies regions and leverages the diversity of each individual and organization to lead the new healthcare economy.”

The 2024 CAN Health Network Awards were presented to recognize the leading healthcare providers (Edges), companies, partners, and individuals within the Network who are transforming healthcare in Canada.

CAN Health introduced a new award this year, the Wessinger Award, created on behalf of Mike and Dave Wessinger in recognition of their visionary leadership and investment in Canada through PointClickCare.

Awards were presented to the following recipients:

• Edge of the Year Award: Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services
• Trailblazer of the Year Award: James Hiebert, Medical, Surgical & Safety Supplies
• Shape Award: Lucie Hiltner, Integrated Marketplace, Innovate BC
• The Network Award: Nova Scotia Health and Virtual Hallway
• Company of the Year: NanoTess
• The Wessinger Award: Mike and Dave Wessinger, PointClickCare