WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), approved section 1115 demonstration amendments that allow, for the first time ever, Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage of traditional healthcare practices provided by Indian Health Service (IHS) facilities, tribal facilities, and Urban Indian Organizations (UIO). This 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, and will support IHS, tribal, and UIO 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 healthcare practices at certain IHS facilities, we are extending access to culturally appropriate, quality healthcare in tribal communities.”
“Today’s announcement continues the work of the Biden-Harris administration to make healthcare more accessible and more equitable across the country, including for American Indian and Alaska Native communities,” said CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “By strengthening access to traditional healthcare practices, these innovative state demonstrations can play a crucial role in reducing health disparities and improving health across tribal communities.”
“The Indian Health Service is the 17th largest healthcare system in the nation, and as Director, I am thrilled by today’s announcement,” said IHS Director Roselyn Tso. “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. We appreciate the administration’s commitment to move forward with covering this care, and the IHS is honored to be a partner in this essential work.”
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. 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. Some tribes see traditional healthcare practices as a fundamental element of healthcare that can help patients with specific physical and mental ailments. The section 1115 demonstration approvals aim to improve health outcomes and access to culturally appropriate care for tribal citizens.
