pdf download - First Nations Health Council

FEEDBACK - Health IssuesThe Health Director’s feedback revealed that the Association could participate in creating and advocatingfor desired changes to the First Nations health governing system, health services and servicedelivery. The non-exhaustive list includes the following:Health IssueDesired Changes• Increase funding for NIHB – there is always a major deficit• Full coverage – patients should not receive ½ a service because of lack of coverage• Incorporate orientation of NIHB program• Include training for Staff Administering Programs• NIHB Administration:o Consider different models of delivery, which would include extended healthbenefits packages according to community’s needs• Include traditional healers and medicines in cost coverage• Give prior notice of cutbacks in NIHB fundingN o n - I n s u r e dHealth Benefits(NIHB)• Consultation with First Nations on changes to NIHB policies• Increase amount of nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, dentures and dentists towork in communities or else make frequent community visits• Advocate for a patient lodge in Campbell River or North Island• Education for health providers around remoteness and isolated communities andsmall nations• Create list of providers that accept NIHB• Support special needs support services under NIHB• Incorporate a focus on prevention – dieticians, homeopathy, pathologists costscoverage – also cost of having immunizations administered by nurses brought tocommunities• Obtain copy of Health Canada’s fee schedule that providers follow to referenceand improveHEALTH DIRECTORS FORUM 2008 - SUMMARY REPORT 11