Federal Indian Hospitals Settlement Applications Now Open
The claims period for the Federal Indian Hospitals Settlement is now open for individuals that experienced harm in federally operated hospitals during the claim period. Claims must be submitted by the deadline of July 27, 2028.
Eligibility
An eligible class member must have: 1) attended one of the 33 hospitals included in the settlement (a full list can be found here), 2) while that hospital was being operated by the Government of Canada, and 3) the claimant must have suffered harm while admitted to the hospital.
The eligibility period is different for each hospital depending on the dates of operation listed in the settlement. For example, the Sioux Lookout Indian Hospital’s eligibility period is from January 1, 1942, to May 31, 1953, while the eligibility period for the Moose Factory Indian Hospital is from September 9, 1950, to December 31, 1981.
The claims website included an Eligibility Information Tool to assist in determining eligibility.
Compensation
Compensation for eligible class members ranges from $10,000 up to a maximum of $200,000; the level of compensation for which a class member is eligible depends on the level of harm experienced.
Details on the categories or harm and the compensation for which a class member may be entitled is provided here.
Supports
The settlement included a dedicated Claimant Support Program which ensures that class members can receive support from Claims Helpers. A Claims Helper can explain the process and walk the class member through the Claim Form. Claims Helpers can be reached by calling 1-888-592-9101 and pressing 2.
If a class member wants the assistance of a lawyer, the settlement also included a provision for legal fees. If a class member receives compensation, their lawyer can apply to the Canadian Government for a reimbursement up to a total of 5% of the total value of compensation for the class member.
Importantly, any legal fees paid are not deducted from the class members compensation and are paid to the lawyer in addition to the compensation.
Edwards Bell Jewitt LLP can help you answer questions you may have or connect you to the Class Action lawyers. Give us a call to discuss at 807-344-1112.
Alternatively, you can reach out directly to the Claims Administrator at 1-888-592-9101 or via email at GeneralInfo@Contact.IHSettlement.ca.
Written by Austin Love