Volume XXVII, Issue 4 - Ak-Chin Indian Community

17 February 15 - 28, 201317The Affordable Health Care Act and the Potential Impacts on theGila River Indian CommunityThe Health Insurance Exchange(January 28, 2013) We can’t turn on the news these days without hearingabout Obama Care/The Affordable Care Act. This article will address some ofthe regulations that are connected to the Affordable Care Act and how thismay impact Gila River Health Care. A unique government-to-governmentrelationship exists between Indian Tribes, State Governments, and theFederal Governments. Since the formation of the Union, the Unites Stateshas recognized Tribal Governments as sovereign nations. The U.S.Constitution, treaties and laws, together with court decisions, have defineda relationship between Indian Tribes and Federal Government that is unlikethat between the Federal Government and any other group of Americans.The Federal Government has enacted numerous regulations and policiesthat establish and define a trust relationship with Indian Tribes.The State of Arizona has acknowledged it does not intend to operate its ownState-based Health Insurance Exchange, this means that uninsured patientsin Arizona will have the opportunity to- participate in a Federally-facilitatedHealth Insurance Exchange. Because of the tribal relationship that is definedabove, tribal consultation sessions will be taking place throughout this year,with the goal of having all uninsured people of Arizona, including thevarious tribal members to be enrolled in a Federal Health Insurance programby October 1, 2013 with an effective date of January 1, 2014. The guidingprinciple of Indian Tribes being involved in this process, which includes thetribal consultation sessions to ensure that the relationship continues to existbetween parties that will aid in the development of culturally appropriateand accessible services. The goal is to improve the quality and availability ofaffordable health care that will eliminate barriers to services for AmericanIndians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) in Arizona.One of the main components of this act is that premium and cost-sharingsubsidies will be available for individuals up to 400% of the Federal PovertyLevel (FPL). Additionally, there are certain provisions for AI/AN, whichinclude the following:AI/AN are exempt from the tax penalty for not having insurancecoverageAI/AN under 300% FPL who purchase coverage through the federalinsurance exchange are exempt from cost-sharing (deductibles,co-payments and co-insurance)AI/AN who receive services at a tribal/IHS facility or through aContract Health Services referral are exempt from cost sharingAI/AN have special enrollment periods into the health exchangeTribes have the ability to purchase health insurance coverage andpay for the individual premium responsibilities on behalf of theirrespective tribal membersExchanges must consult with tribes in the exchange’s geographicareaIndian health providers shall have the right to bill the insurancecompanies participating in the exchange for services provided totheir enrolleesThe act also addresses the need for outreach and education by establishingthe role of navigators. Navigators will be funded by the health insuranceexchange to conduct impartial education and awareness of the qualifiedhealth plans participating in the exchange. Another requirement will be thatinformation available through the health insurance exchange portal willhave information specific to American Indians /Alaskan Natives.It is vital that Gila River Health Care continue to be involved in thediscussions at the state and federal level to engage every effort that willimprove the quality care provided to the patients and families we serve. Thisis an exciting, vibrant time in health care, and we will continue to advocatefor the health care needs of the people we serve daily at Gila River HealthCare.Don’t Forget!Flu Season Is Here! Get Your Flu Vaccination TODAY!Gila River Health Care’s Public Health Nursing Department is offering a flu clinic at Ak-Chin’s PHNoffice on Thursday, February 14, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The office is located in theHousing Department Buildings, Apartment 2, 48277 W. Farrell.For more information, please call Public Health Nursing at (520) 550-6000 ext. 6042.Komatke Health Center17487 South Healthcare DriveLaveen, Az 85339Phone: 520-550-6000Fax: 520-550-6033Hu Hu Kam Memorial Hospital483 West Seed Farm RoadSacaton, AZ 85147Phone: 520-562-3321Fax: 602-528-1240Ak-Chin Health Clinic48203 West Farrell RoadMaricopa, AZ 85239Phone: 520-568-3881Fax: 520-568-3884Accountability Commitment Patients & Families CultureQuality Self-Governance Trust