Non-Insured Health Benefits: How BC First Nations Can Control Their Health Services

The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program is frequently criticized for its poor service delivery and weak effectiveness at addressing health issues facing Aboriginal communities in Canada. This research examines the veracity of these claims within British Columbia and determines that cost reduction measures implemented by Health Canada have reduced the accessibility of the program, particularly with regard to dental coverage. The NIHB program is being transferred to the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). Prospects for the FNHA to improve the program and resolve its long-standing issues are investigated. Within the context of this transfer, an analysis of the policy alternatives available to BC First Nations community leaders and band governments to improve their Members’ access to secondary health services is conducted. This analysis concludes that programs which assist Members with utilizing their NIHB coverage, as well as provide more general health education and promotion, would be most effective.