As the FNHA prepares to complete transition in the area of Health Benefits we look to take control of the policy and administration for Pharmacy, Dental and Medical Supplies and Equipment benefit areas. In order to bring these elements in-house we need to design a new framework to administer these areas, one that is wellness focused.
The First Nations Health Benefits (FNHB) team has investigated health benefit plan designs, and examined the existing plan to identify new approaches and demonstrate how these options might work for the FNHA. These options have previously been shared with Chiefs and Health Directors at five regional caucus sessions in October and November, 2014.
Key points of the new design options include:
• Health Spending Account: an annual amount available to each FNHA Client over and above regular health benefits, to provide the ability to invest in health and wellness beyond what regular health benefits provide.• Case Management: the coordination of services in delivering health care, ensuring people have access to the care and resources they need to achieve optimal health while balancing the use of resources and a patient’s right to self-determination.
Today the FNHB team will be extending the consultation by reaching out to community citizens (individual clients) around the province. If you are BC First Nations you are welcome to participate between now and April 30, 2015. If you are a program administrator or community leader please share with your membership. Unfortunately we are only offering an opportunity for online feedback at this early stage in the process.
If you or someone you know is approached to take part, we hope you will take the opportunity to provide your thoughts and share your personal experiences. http://fluidsurveys.com/surveys/fnha/health-benefits-plan-design/
Our team will refine the proposed Health Benefit Plan options, built upon the feedback and direction received through community consultation, to be reported on at Gathering Wisdom, 2015.
