First Nations Health Benefits and Services (FNHBS) is changing the temporary mileage reimbursement rate for the Medical Transportation (MT) benefit to remain responsive to fluctuating gas prices.
As gas prices across British Columbia continue to fluctuate, FNHBS is actively monitoring prices to ensure that changes do not impact clients' ability to access medically-necessary appointments when using their private vehicles.
Effective Sept. 16, 2022, the MT mileage rate will change from $0.32 to $0.29. This change will be in effect until Nov. 30, 2022. The change will also apply to the special mileage rate applicable to certain remote communities. Please see the table below for the temporary mileage rates and associated effective dates:
MT Mileage Reimbursement Rates
| Rate | Normal Rate Prior to March 1, 2022
| Temporary Rate Effective May 15 to Sept. 15, 2022 | Temporary Rate Effective Sept. 16 to Nov. 30, 2022
|
Standard MT Mileage Rate*
| $0.23 / km
| $0.32 / km
| $0.29 / km
|
Special MT Mileage Rate for Remote Communities**
| $0.29 / km
| $0.38 / km
| $0.35 / km
|
*Applies to most communities
**Applies to specific communities as identified in their funding agreement
The First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is committed to delivering responsive programs and services to support First Nations people in their health and wellness journeys.
The FNHA will continue to monitor regional and provincial gas prices and may make further adjustments in response to this rapidly-changing situation. For reference, a complete history of MT mileage rate adjustments can be found here and will be updated as new changes are announced.
Information for Communities with Funding Agreements
The FNHA will ensure that all communities delivering MT locally through a Funding Agreement receive additional funding necessary to support the increased mileage rate. FNHBS will follow up separately with agreement holders regarding the increase.
About the MT Benefit
The MT benefit provides supplemental coverage of transportation, accommodation and meals to assist clients who need to access medically-necessary health services unavailable in their communities of residence. Learn more about MT and other health benefits.
For additional information or support, please contact FNHBS at 1.855.550.5454 or healthbenefits@fnha.ca.
