Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB)

The Non-Insured Health Benefits is a national government program that provides coverage for health benefits to eligible First Nation and Inuit people who are not covered under other private, provincial, and territorial insurance plans or social programs.

Who is Eligible?

• Resident of Canada and one of the following: 
  • Registered First Nation Individuals under the Indian Act (often referred to as a “Status Indian”)
  • An Inuk recognized by an Inuit language claim organization 
  • A child less than 2 years old whose parent is a NIHB-eligible client

What is Covered?

• Dental Care
• Vision Care
• Mental Health Counselling/Psychotherapy (Short-Term)
• Prescription Medications
• Medical Supplies and Equipment
• Medical Transportation
• Benefits Outside of Canada (if attending school, employed or require approved medical treatment outside of Canada)

Mental Health Services

The NIHB program provides coverage for mental health services every 12 months (January to December) for up to 22 hours of counselling, and additional hours may be provided on a case-by-case basis in the same 12 months.  Individuals provide us with their NIHB Identification Number to receive coverage for service, and we get approval from NIHB to confirm your coverage.  We provide direct billing to the NIHB Mental Health Counselling Program.  Sojourn Wellness is approved by the government to provide mental health counselling to people covered under the NIHB program.

NIHB does not cover the fee for missed or late cancel appointments (less than 24-hour notice); therefore, a credit card is required to secure bookings as part of the 24-hour cancellation policy. 

If you have questions regarding your eligibility for a service – call the NIHB Client Information Line at 800.640.0642.