Effective July 1, 2024 the First Nations Health Benefits and Services (FNHBS) is updating existing pre-determinations to align with recent Mental Wellness and Counselling (MWC) program changes (see here for more information). Learn more about the updates and next steps below.
How do I know if these changes impact me?
To determine if you are impacted by these updates, you may use one of the following options:
- Contact your Provider;
- Log in to your PBC Member Profile to review your active MWC hours; or
- Call FNHBS at 1-855-550-5454.
What are the changes?
Pre-determinations from IRS RHSP will be reissued under the MWC program for 22 hours if they meet the following criteria:
- The pre-determination was issued within the last 12 months; and
- The last date of service was within the last 12 months.
What if I had more than one approved Provider?
If you were seeing more than one Provider, the Provider with whom you had the most recent counselling session will be renewed if they meet the criteria outlined above. If this is not your preferred Provider, please contact FNHBS at 1-855-550-5454.
What if I need more than 22 hours of counselling?
The MWC benefit provides 22 hour pre-determinations for counselling with an FNHA-registered Provider. If you require additional counselling hours, they may be provided through an exception request. Your Provider will be able to submit this request on your behalf.
What if I still have questions?
The FNHBS team is here to support you through these changes. If you have any questions about your mental health benefit coverage, please contact FNHBS at 1-855-550-5454.
Additional resources:
Client frequently asked questions
Provider frequently asked questions
