b'always covered but we see that as a benefit, Carr explains. We also bring in traditional healers because these things are simply not covered by NIHB.Additionally, the community has a longstanding medical supply loan cupboard to address the waiting gap for approvals for things such as crutches or canes. We initiated the community loan cupboard place because of the challenge for some of our citizens to get coverage for these items, Carr explains. It has become a long-term viable solution for folks and its been running formany years.Carr describes this as an interim solution until an NIHB overhaul and reform can take place, but she also sees value in such support sticking around for the longer term. She also believes that if the program was viewed and implemented as more of a treaty right, the government would have less restraints and conditions that result in barriers for those accessing it. Unfortunately, the current program forces nations and individuals to work inside a box.An ideal overhaul and reform of the NIHB program would consider improvements in physical, mental and emotional health support and wellness that centres the patient, Carr believes. These improvements would be determined by the communities and vary from nation to nation. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to this, she says.We need both our solutionsand federal solutions to be working together, as opposed to imposing limitations and processes that make the services inaccessible.Additionally, improvements in the realm of harm reduction would also strengthen communities. Addiction supports need to be a benefit, and communities need to define what post-care and aftercare looks like, she says. NIHB does not cover much treatment in this area. Harm reduction support across all nations could be improved. As well, we know that 20 hours of therapy isnt going to undo generations of trauma, but our people have always been resourceful and resilient.Still, reform would only further contribute to mino-bimaadiziwin, orthe good life in Anishinaabemowin,she concludes.I ssue1 2025C hIefs ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazIne l 33'