The Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program provides clients (registered First Nations and recognized Inuit) with coverage for a range of health benefits, including prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications, dental and vision care, medical supplies and equipment, mental health counselling, and transportation to access health services not available locally.  You can find more information on the range of benefits covered under the NIHB Program on the Indigenous Services Canada web site at www.canada.ca/nihb. 

Health Benefits for First Nations clients living in British Columbia are provided by the First Nations Health Authority. First Nations clients in BC can phone 1-855-550-5454. Inuit and non-resident First Nations accessing services in BC can contact the NIHB program at 1-800-232-7301

Update on Coverage for Smoking Cessation Treatments

Smoking cessation therapies are used to help people quit smoking. Some people need more than one patch at a time to control cravings, and may combine patches with other forms of nicotine replacement therapy. NIHB clients are now eligible in a 12-month period for coverage of:

·         Up to 36 boxes of patches (7 patches per box)
·         One 12-week course of treatment, like gums, lozenges, and inhalers, or spray

If you reach your limit on smoking cessation products but want to try quitting again, ask your pharmacist to call the Drug Exception Centre and you may be eligible for more. NIHB will cover these over-the-counter products when they are recommended or prescribed by a pharmacist, so you don't need a prescription from a doctor.

The Program also covers Zyban and Champix, which are prescription medications used to help people quit smoking. Please talk to your health care provider about the right products and therapies for you.