Medical Transportation Program

The Prince Rupert Aboriginal Community Services Society administers the First Nations Health Authority (previously Non-Insured Health Benefits) Medical Transportation Policy Framework (MTPF) on behalf of the First Nations Health Authority.

 Funding for Medical Transportation is for required health services that are not provided on reserve or in the community of residence. The types of benefits that are funded, and the criteria under which they are funded, are set out in national and provincial policies. As program administrator, we are accountable to the First Nations Health Authority. Our patient travel clerks administer the funds and coordinate medical travel for our eligible clients. Their aim is to ensure that our clients receive the benefits to which they are entitled, as defined under the MTPF.

Communities Served
First Nations Health Authority medical transportation benefits are available to all eligible First Nations clients living in BC who are not covered through a Contribution Agreement with First Nations and Inuit Health. To reach the First Nations Health Authority Regional office, please call 1-800-317-7878.

PRACSS administers patient travel for the communities listed below. Call 1-888-624-5504 or our patient travel administration number at 250-624-4646 for information and assistance.

- Dease River (504)
- Hartley Bay (675)
- Kitkatla (627)
- Kitselas (680)
- Kitsumkalum (681)
- Lax Kw'alaams (674)
- Metlakatla (673)
- Taku River Tlingit (501)

Off-Reserve Patient Travel
We also administer patient travel from our Prince Rupert location for clients whose communities do not administer off-reserve FNHA patient travel. To make arrangements, you may reach us toll free at 1-888-624-5504. Please note that the Nisga'a Nation administers medical travel for its members.

Medical Transportation Benefit Appeals Process
If you are denied a medical transportation benefit, you may appeal the decision to the First Nations Health Authority. The appeal must be submitted to the FNHA in writing and can be initiated by the client, by a legal guardian, or by an interpreter. Supporting information to justify the appeal must be provided. 

Please contact the FNHA office for specific information on making an appeal for Medical Transportation Benefits. You may also visit the First Nations Health Authority policy framework website for details.