FIRST NATIONS HEALTH AUTHORITY

FOCUSES ON COMMUNITY BASED HEALTH SERVICES FOR FIRST NATIONS PEOPLES

First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is actually not an agency under the PHSA.

The FNHA is a completely independent, province-wide health authority—the first and only of its kind in Canada. While it works closely with the PHSA and the BC Ministry of Health, it has its own unique governance structure, funding, and mandate.

How it Differs from PHSA

• PHSA: A provincial government body that runs specialized hospitals (like BC Children's) for all British Columbians.

• FNHA: A First Nations-led organization that manages health programs and services specifically for First Nations people in B.C. It took over the roles formerly held by the federal government (Health Canada).

What the FNHA Does

The FNHA acts as a "health and wellness partner" to over 200 First Nations communities. Its work is divided into several key areas:

1. Health Benefits (Plan W) They manage "Non-Insured Health Benefits" for Status First Nations people living in B.C. This includes:

• Dental & Vision: Coverage for exams, cleaning, and eyewear.

• Pharmacy: The "Plan W" program, which covers a wide range of prescriptions and over-the-counter medications.

• Medical Supplies: Coverage for items like mobility aids or diabetic supplies.

• Medical Transportation: Helping with travel costs for those who need to leave their community for specialist appointments.

2. Community-Based Services The FNHA funds and supports programs directly within First Nations communities, such as:

• Nursing Services: Community health nurses and home care.

• Mental Health: Suicide prevention, trauma-informed counseling, and cultural healing programs.

• Maternal & Child Health: Prenatal support and "Aboriginal Head Start" programs.

3. Virtual Care (Expansion in 2026) The FNHA has pioneered virtual health services to bridge the gap for remote communities:

• First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day: Connects members with doctors who are trained in cultural safety.

• Virtual Substance Use & Psychiatry Service: Provides specialist support without the need for travel.

4. Cultural Safety Advocacy One of the FNHA’s biggest roles is holding the rest of the BC healthcare system (including the PHSA and regional boards) accountable for "cultural safety." They work to eliminate Indigenous-specific racism in hospitals and clinics.

Recent News (February 2026)

In January 2026, the FNHA signed a major Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Simon Fraser University (SFU). This partnership is designed to train future doctors at the new SFU Medical School using FNHA-led curriculum, ensuring the next generation of physicians understands First Nations' holistic perspectives on health.