Behind the Pandemic in Aboriginal Communities - Interagency ...

Card Key Issues Affecting Vulnerability Suggested Questions and ProbesTiffany • Canada’s health system covers the costs of doctor’s visits and hospital stays, butdoes not cover prescriptions or non-medical expenses such as baby formula.• The non-insured health benefits for First Nations and Inuit administered by FNIHBof Health Canada provide extended coverage to First Nations and Inuit. The list ofapproved expenses is always under review and people often have to wait for thefinal decision from the provider.• Baby formula is expensive for people living in poverty and may not be readilyavailable through food banks.• The doctor fails to understand the factors affecting Tiffany’s ability to implementhis advice.• Fear of facing HIV stigma creates stress and affects choices.Troy • Many of the factors or conditions that support positive living are non-medicalexpenses and must be covered out of pocket.• The working poor may not be able to afford these additional expenses. They mayalso not be able to access free services depending on the agency’s hours.What kinds of expenses are covered byCanada’s health care system?What are some of the challenges to positiveliving that are encountered by the workingpoor?95