What is the Indian Health Care Improvement Act?

The Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA) is a federal law that promotes and supports Native American health care in the United States. It was signed into law in 1976 and is still in effect today. The IHCIA sets forth a broad range of health benefits and services to be provided to Native Americans who are enrolled in federally recognized tribes. It was passed to ensure that Native Americans have access to health care that is of the same quality as that offered to other Americans. Specifically, the IHCIA includes provisions that focus on improving health care for Native Americans and Alaska Natives, providing for the direct delivery of health care services, and creating an Indian-specific health care system. The act also sets forth the rights and requirements of Native Americans and health care providers alike. It also outlines the responsibilities of the Indian Health Service (IHS), which is responsible for providing health care to Native Americans. In South Carolina, the IHCIA has had a significant impact on providing health care benefits to Native Americans and Alaska Natives living in the state. For example, the IHCIA has increased access to health care services, improved health care quality, and increased tribal control over health care service delivery. Additionally, IHS established health centers across the state to better meet the needs of Native Americans in South Carolina. Overall, the Indian Health Care Improvement Act is a federal law that promotes and supports Native American health care in the United States. It provides for a wide range of health benefits and services for Native Americans living in South Carolina, including but not limited to improved access to health care services, improved health care quality, increased tribal control over health care services, and the establishment of health centers by IHS.

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