United Tribes ) Michigan - Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

INDIAN NATIONS
Health
Tribal health facilities face challenges unique in the health care industry. Like all other providers, tribal clinics must
contract with medical doctors, nurses, and other health professionals; comply with HIPAA and other applicable
federal laws; enter into contractual relationships with hospitals and other outside providers; and establish and
implement policies to assure quality care to patients. Unlike other health clinics, however, tribal clinics must operate
under federal contracts under the Indian Education and Self-Determination Act of 1975 and the Indian Health Care
Improvement Act of 1976, which place restrictions on the patients clinics can serve and fail to provide adequate
funding, particularly for contract health services. Moreover, underfunded tribal clinics must serve a population with
special needs, including high rates of diabetes, hypertension, substance abuse and other pathologies related to decades
of poverty and discrimination.
Godfrey & Kahn's Health Care Practice group use their knowledge of the unique laws and circumstances that apply in
Indian country to assist tribal health administrators and elected leaders in meeting the health needs of their
communities, including advice in connection with
• Clinic operations
• Risk management
• Professional contracts
• Recruiting of professionals
• Federal Tort Claims Act issues
• Issues arising under the Self-Determination Act and Indian Health Care Improvement Act
• Financing and construction of new facilities
• Contract arrangements with outside providers and vendors
• Employment policies
• HIPAA compliance
• Insurance structures
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