Medicaid cuts threaten Native American health programs

Health centers serving Native American communities are preparing for severe impacts if Congress cuts federal Medicaid funding. Many of these centers rely heavily on Medicaid to support their services. For example, at the Oneida Community Health Center in Wisconsin, over 40% of its 15,000 patients are on Medicaid. Debra Danforth, director of the Oneida Comprehensive Health Division, expressed her concern, calling the potential cuts "a tremendous hit." The center provides essential health services to members of the Oneida Nation and other federally recognized tribes. Tribal health leaders warn that cuts to Medicaid would force health facilities to reduce services. Medicaid is vital for covering funding shortages from the Indian Health Service (IHS), which oversees health care for Native Americans. Currently, Medicaid accounts for about two-thirds of the revenue for tribal health providers, helping them meet operational costs. Many Native Americans rely on Medicaid for their health needs. The program allows them to receive care outside tribal facilities without facing heavy medical debt. Tribal leaders are urging Congress to exempt tribes from cuts, citing the federal government's obligation to deliver health care as part of trust and treaty agreements. Health disparities affect Native American communities, where life expectancy is lower than the national average. Nevertheless, some tribes have increased access to health care through Medicaid funding, expanding services like behavioral health. In Montana, urban Indian clinics have grown in their funding, thanks to Medicaid reimbursements. However, cuts could mean fewer services for the 30,000 people these clinics serve. Currently, 30% of American Indian and Alaska Native individuals under 65 rely on Medicaid, compared to 15% among their white counterparts. Tribal health advocates stress that any cuts will be harmful. They face the challenge of maintaining care for a population with high health needs but limited resources. Congress is considering significant cuts, increasing concerns among health leaders. State leaders also fear that cuts to Medicaid could shift financial burdens onto their budgets. Without federal support, states may be forced to change eligibility rules, risking health coverage for many individuals. President Trump's administration has made conflicting statements about Medicaid cuts. A recent House budget resolution seeks to reduce Medicaid spending significantly. The proposed cuts could affect millions of Americans who depend on the program for their health care. Tribal leaders argue that they cannot easily replace Medicaid funding, which is crucial for their operations. Cuts could threaten their best efforts to deliver modern health care services to Native Americans.