Goods and services provided by Community and Social Services as health benefits are defined in ISTHB Regulation, Section 73, and are decisions of the Minister. An appeal panel does not have authority to overturn a decision regarding health benefits provided under ISTHB Regulation, Section 73.

The Health Benefits Exception Committee (HBEC), appointed by the Minister, has the authority to approve health benefits as defined but not covered within the applicable agreements and drug lists specified in ISTHB Regulation, Section 73. Their decision is final.

If an appeal panel hears a matter related to health benefits, the department representative challenges the jurisdiction of the panel to grant the benefit. The department representative attending an appeal should bring a copy of the agreement relating to the appeal, and reference ISTHB Regulation, Section 73.