Welcome to the First Nations Council of Physician Assistants Web Page.

For the past five years, First Nations has remained committed to the goals and objectives for which this caucus was formed.  We have served as the only American Indian Physician Assistant organization, serving as a strong national voice and advocate for issues of common concern. 

During our annual National AAPA conference, we gathered in Anaheim, California, May 26- June 1, 2001, to hold our annual meetings, attend CME lectures, and celebrate a very successful and unprecedented intertribal gathering/ Pow Wow (we are currently developing a web page section dedicated to the event).   These activities reflect part of the hard work we have done in the past and will continue to do in the years ahead.

As we go forward into this year, I assure you that First Nations will continue at the forefront of our united efforts to preserve our traditional medicinal practices, promote preventive medicine, and be an advocate for government health issues affecting our Indian Nations.  We will continue our work to fight the epidemic of diabetes and other serious health issues that are taking a toll on our Indian communities. 

As I have mentioned many times before, it is up to us to revive our traditional healthy lifestyles including proper diet, and physical activity.  Much of the reason for present health problems among Indians is due to poor diet and sedentary lifestyles.  These conditions are essentially a result of government sponsored programs and modernization.  I believe we have the obligation to convey the notion that families and individual have to regain control over their own bodies and personal health care standards. More importantly, we have to serve as role models.  We can do it!

First Nations’ major emphasis for the coming year will be the development and implementation of a fund-raising campaign.  We realize that a greater financial base is essential in order to accomplish some of our goals including educational awards.  We will continue with the same enduring spirit and vision of accomplishment and prosperity for our group and our Indian people.  I am confident that as we move forward, our members will continue to be proud of the evolution and mission of our First Nations Council.   Let us carry on and continue to build on our accomplishments.  If you have any ideas, questions or suggestions please do not hesitate to contact me or any of our officers.

Liobwania - En
Wabanang