Overseen by Health Canada, this program covers health services for eligible First Nations and Inuit people, including braces. But before orthodontics can be approved, patients need to send a long series of documents to the NIHB Ortho Records.
What Are NIHB Ortho Records?
NIHB Ortho Records are comprised of diagnostic and clinical records necessary to support an NIHB program orthodontic treatment application. These documentation serve as a basis to determine eligibility for medical necessity for treatment.
A full NIHB Ortho Records package will usually consist of:
Before and after photographs inside the mouth and two photos of the outside of the mouth (teeth and face)
These files are reviewed by dental consultants of Health Canada to determine the severity of the orthodontic problem. Only those patients with dental and/or skeletal problems that fulfill the NIHB approval criteria will receive funded treatment.
Why Are They Important?
Orthodontic treatment is paid for only if the work is “medically necessary” and when treatments are not “for cosmetic reasons,” the Ontario website notes. Hence accurate, comprehensive and professionally documenting ortho records are Crucial. Pending or substandard submissions can cause delays or denials, which may restrict a child’s ability to obtain care in a timely manner.
Well-prepared NIHB Ortho Records submitted, helps each case be thoroughly reviewed. It is also promotes fair and equitable decision making in this arena and can help to ensure that scarce resources are directed to the most needy. These documents serve as the basis for an unbiased assessment of the patient s orthodontic requirements.
Support for First Nations Communities
Early orthodontic treatment can be incredibly beneficial—and not just to a smile but to self-confidence and overall quality of life. The problem is that many Indigenous families living in remote or underserved communities may not have access to specialists, and the approval process can be confusing to navigate.
This is why the practices and the clinicians that understand the NIHB Ortho Records requirements are crucial to helping these communities. By assisting with obtaining the necessary paperwork, guiding applicants through the process and submitting applications in its entirety, providers guarantee the patients are able to receive the medical care they deserve without having any unnecessary roadblocks.
Our Commitment
Edmonton Diagnostic Imaging is dedicated to helping First Nations and Inuit families navigate the NIHB orthodontic approval process. Our experienced staff help with everything: from getting accurate photos and x-rays to writing professional treatment plans to submitting all the material you need for a complete NIHB Ortho Records package.
We know that everyone of all ages deserves a beautifully straight smile. We improve approval rates and time to therapy by delivering 100% compliant, accurate submissions.
No matter the case, if you still need some help understanding the NIHB process or just with railing out your ortho records, let us know! We’re here for you at every stage.