Medicaid to cover traditional Tribal community healthcare 

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For the first time, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is allowing Medicaid coverage of traditional healthcare practices provided by Indian Health Services facilities, Tribal facilities and urban Indian organizations.

CMS has approved section 1115 demonstration amendments that allow for traditional practices to be covered under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The action applies to American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Health insurance has not always recognized traditional healthcare practices for coverage.

CMS said the action is expected to improve access to culturally appropriate healthcare and improve the quality of care and health outcomes for tribal communities in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Oregon. It will support facilities in serving their patients.

"Traditional healthcare practices have been a way of life in many communities. And they are extremely important for American Indian and Alaska Native populations," said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. "But, too often, health insurance does not cover them. With Medicaid and CHIP's inclusion of traditional health care practices at certain IHS facilities, we are extending access to culturally appropriate, quality health care in Tribal communities."

The state demonstrations also play a role in reducing health disparities, according to CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure.

American Indians and Alaska Natives experience significantly worse health disparities compared to the general population, including higher rates of obesity, diabetes, cancer, mental illnesses, substance use disorders and suicide, CMS said. 

THE LARGER TREND
 
Studies have shown that traditional healthcare practices can improve outcomes for people with various conditions, including mental health and substance use disorders. American Indians and Alaska Natives have long recognized the contribution of traditional healers and practitioners who are valued for their role in aiding the healing process, CMS said. 

"The Indian Health Service is the 17th largest healthcare system in the nation, said Roselyn Tso, director of the Indian Health Service.

ON THE RECORD

Tso said, "American Indian and Alaska Natives have been endowed by our ancestors a deep and priceless wealth of traditional healing knowledge. These practices have sustained our people's health for generations and continue to serve as a vital link between culture, science, and wellness in many of our communities."
 

Email the writer: SMorse@himss.org