Overview

Abstract (English)

Aim The objective of this study was to assess and compare the prevalence of self-reported unmet healthcare needs (UHN) among Canadian indigenous groups using the 2006 and 2012 Aboriginal Peoples Surveys (APS). Subject and methods Frequency distributions and cross tabulations were produced to estimate the proportion of indigenous people who reported UHN in 2006 and 2012 and for sub-populations, based on indigenous identity, gender, age, geographic region and urban/rural area. Additionally, frequency distributions were produced for reasons for UHN and types of care needed. Standard errors and confidence intervals were calculated and took into account bootstrap weights. Results In 2006, 11.65% (CI: 11.04, 12.26) of indigenous people reported UHN, and this proportion significantly increased to 13.74% (CI: 12.88, 14.60) in 2012. UHN varied among indigenous identities; however, only Inuit had a significant difference in UHN between 2006 (10.19%, CI: 9.05, 11.33) and 2012 (14.58%, CI: 12.57, 16.59). Individuals aged 18-34 years, females, and those in the Prairies and Territories and in urban areas had significant differences in UHN. The most common reasons for UHN were related to availability, and the majority of respondents reported needing care for physical health problems. Conclusions Further research is warranted that examines the association between general factors related to UHN and indigenous-specific factors. Additionally, assessing how chronic disease impacts UHN will provide information on reasons for UHN (e.g., healthcare system-related versus personal circumstances).

Abstract (French)

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