ITP Unit 1A ppt (1)

Introduction to Health Care Assistant Program

  • Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, Merritt, BC

Health Care System Overview

Health Authorities in BC

  • Regions: 1. Interior 2. Fraser 3. Northern 4. Vancouver Coastal 5. Vancouver Island 6. Provincial Health Service

Federal, Provincial, and Territorial Roles

Federal Role

  • Administers the Canada Health Act

  • Delivers care to specific groups (e.g. First Nations)

  • Develops health promotion and disease prevention policies

  • Transfers funds to provinces for health care services

Provincial and Territorial Role

  • Develop and manage own health care insurance plans

  • Finance health services consistent with Canada Health Act guidelines

Canada Health Act

  • Federal legislation for publicly funded health care

  • Protects physical and mental well-being of residents

  • Ensures access to medical services without financial barriers

Canadian Medicare

Definition

  • National health insurance system providing quality health care at no cost

  • Funded by provincial/territorial and federal taxes

Five Principles

  1. Public Administration: Non-profit, publicly administered

  2. Comprehensiveness: Covers all medically necessary services

  3. Universality: Available to all permanent residents

  4. Portability: Coverage remains regardless of relocation

  5. Accessibility: Medically necessary services must be available without extra charges

Health Definition by WHO

  • Health is complete physical, mental, and social well-being

  • Seen as a resource for everyday life, emphasizing personal and social resources

Impact of Health Definition on Delivery

  • Individualized health care delivery necessary

  • Holistic approach needed for physical, social, and emotional health

  • Importance of health promotion and reducing illness risks highlighted

Regional Health Authorities in BC

List of Authorities

  • Interior Health Authority (IHA)

  • Fraser Health

  • Vancouver Coastal Health

  • Vancouver Island (Island Health)

  • Northern Health Authority

  • Note: Seven public health authorities in total; the Nisga'a Valley Health Authority (NVHA) is independent.

Nisga'a Valley Health Authority (NVHA)

  • Established April 25, 1984

  • Focus on traditional healing and cultural integration

  • Committed to working with Nisga’a citizens for health support

Public Regional Health Authorities' Functions

  • Provide quality health care services to residents

  • Identify health needs and plan appropriate services

  • Ensure funding and management of programs meet objectives

Health Services Delivered by BC Health Authorities

Primary Health Care

  • First point of contact for health care

  • Includes outpatient visits, mental health, chronic disease management

Hospital Care

  • Emergency, inpatient, outpatient care provided

Home and Community Care

Types of Services

  • Home Support: Assistance with daily living tasks

  • Assisted Living: Support for adults needing help with activities

  • Long Term Care: For those with complex care needs

  • End-of-Life Care: Palliative and hospice services

  • Respite Care: Relief for family caregivers

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention in Care

  • All health services should incorporate health promotion and prevention strategies.

Additional Resources for Community Care

  • Public Health

  • First Nations Health Services

  • BC Health Guide

  • Support Groups, including Meals on Wheels and Hospice Society.