Where We Started
The CTN Indigenous Pathway is a vital initiative dedicated to fostering equitable access and culturally safe participation in clinical trials for Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Built on principles of Reconciliation and self-determination, our progress so far has centred on foundational knowledge gathering and establishing the governance required to make this pathway succeed — moving from consultation and design toward real implementation.
Our initial focus has been the National Métis-led Pathway, which convened its landmark meeting in April 2025. That gathering identified key barriers, co-created solutions, and laid the groundwork for the 8 Core Elements of the Métis Pathway Program. We are now translating those findings into actionable, culturally appropriate resources and policies.
The Roadmap
Early 2025 — Foundational Design & Co-Creation
Held the inaugural National Meeting for Métis-led Pathways (Toronto). Defined the 8 Core Elements of the Métis Pathway Program. Established initial principles for ethical data governance (OCAP®/OCAS) and culturally sensitive reporting.
Mid to Late 2025 — Core Element Development & Tool Kit Creation
Development of essential tools for the Indigenous Navigator Program: training modules (including Cancer Care Ontario modules), holistic financial support plans, and culturally sensitive patient intake scripts.
Early 2026 (March–June) — Distinctions-Based Pathway Translation
Begin development of a First Nations-specific pathway, informed by lessons from the Métis pathway. Start work on the Indigenous Data Strategy for CTN, including identifying implementation challenges for OCAP®.
Mid-2026 (July–October) — OCAP® Operationalization & Model Building
Collective sense-making from generated solutions to solidify commitment to key program elements. Model building to identify components that will operationalize OCAP®. Identify key stakeholders and strategize engagement for OCAP® implementation in the CTN, exploring extension to the broader clinical trials program (CCTG).
Late 2026–Early 2027 — Knowledge Mobilization & Finalization
Review knowledge translation examples for use with First Nations communities. Hold a Consensus Workshop. Final write-up of results and formal reporting.
What This Adds Up To
Each phase builds directly on the one before it. The foundational work of 2025 — patient journey mapping, barrier identification, and the first National Meeting — wasn't a one-time event; it set the terms for everything that followed, from the tools Navigators use today to the OCAP® implementation work underway through 2026. As the First Nations pathway comes online and the Inuit pathway is planned in turn, this timeline will keep expanding rather than closing out.