Healthcare Resources

Indian Health Service (IHS)

  • Website: www.ihs.gov
  • Provides comprehensive health services for Native Americans and Alaska Natives.

Urban Indian Health Institute

  • Website: www.uihi.org
  • Focuses on health research and services for Native Americans living in urban areas.

National Indian Health Board (NIHB)

  • Website: www.nihb.org
  • Advocates for healthcare improvements and provides health policy support.

Federal and State Programs
Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Overview: American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) can access health coverage through Medicaid and CHIP, which offer free or low-cost health coverage. These programs provide a range of services, including doctor visits, hospital care, and prescriptions.
Special Provisions: AI/ANs may have certain protections and benefits, such as the ability to apply for enrollment at any time and the option to receive services from Indian Health Service (IHS) providers.
More InformationHealthCare.gov – American Indians and Alaska Natives

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Tribal Affairs
Overview: CMS provides outreach and education resources tailored for AI/AN communities to enhance understanding of health coverage options and benefits.
Resources: Offers materials to support Indian health care providers and educate AI/AN individuals about their health coverage rights and options.
More InformationCMS Outreach and Education Resources

Regional Health Consortia
Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC)

Overview: ANTHC provides comprehensive health services to Alaska Natives, including hospital care, construction of water and sanitation facilities, and health education.
Services: Operates the Alaska Native Medical Center and offers programs in community health, environmental health, and research.
More InformationANTHC

Advocacy and Policy Organizations
National Indian Health Board (NIHB)

Overview: NIHB advocates for improved health care in AI/AN communities and provides policy analysis, training, and technical assistance.
Resources: Offers information on behavioral health, public health initiatives, and legislative updates affecting Native health.
More InformationNIHB Behavioral Health Resources

Legal Support and Health Equity
Recent Supreme Court Decision on Healthcare Funding

Overview: In June 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the federal government must cover additional overhead costs for tribes managing their own health care programs, reinforcing support for tribal sovereignty and self-determination.
Implications: This decision ensures that tribes receive adequate funding to manage health services without bearing extra financial burdens.
More InformationAP News – Supreme Court Sides with Native American Tribes

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