1. Inter-Tribal Health Authority

Twenty nine First Nations from Vancouver Island and the Inner Coastal Region belong to the Inter Tribal Health Authority (ITHA), which manages Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) and other programs on behalf of its band members.

Address:
534 Centre Street
Nanaimo, BC, V9R4Z3

2. Nisga'a Valley Health Board

The Nisga'a nation has its own program, with pharmaceutical and dental benefits arranged through Great West Life Insurance to provide benefits closely mirroring those of the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. All other NIHB services are handled by the Nisga'a Valley Health Authority.

Address:
PO Box 234 - 4920 Tait Avenue
New Aiyansh, BC, V0J1A0

Contacts Page

Main reception: 250 633-5000

3. Non Insured Health Benefits

First Nations and Inuit Health Branch, Health Canada

The Non-Insured Health Benefits Program (NIHB) is a national health benefit program that funds a limited range of medically necessary health-related goods and services to eligible registered First Nations and recognized Inuit (clients). As the payer of last resort NIHB provides goods and services not already provided through private insurance plans, provincial/territorial health or social programs or other publicly funded programs. The benefits funded include prescription drugs, over-the-counter medication, medical supplies and equipment, short-term crisis intervention mental health counselling, dental care, vision care and medical transportation to access medically required health services not provided on the reserve or in the community of residence. See also: Inter Tribal Health Authority and Nisga'a Valley Health Authority.

Address:
757 West Hastings Street, Suite 540
Vancouver, BC, V6C3E6

Contacts Page

Additional online resource: list of eligible supplies and equipment benefits http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fnih-spni/nihb-ssna/provide-fournir/med-equip/criter/a-z_index_e.html

4. Residential Rehabilitation Program, Home Adaptation for Seniors, Independence Shelter Enhancement Program, Emergency Repair Program

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation

These programs may provide persons with low income, persons with disabilities, seniors and Aboriginals with grants and loans to repair their homes, rental units, rooming houses or shelters. Persons with disabilities may be provided with a forgivable loan to complete modifications related to their specific disability (i.e. wheelchair ramp, grab bars, etc.). The cost of equipment and assistive devices is not an eligible expense under the program.

Contacts Page