What is the Indian Health Care Improvement Act?

The Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA) is a federal law that provides critical health care services to Native Americans and Alaska Natives living in New Jersey and throughout the United States. The legislation was originally passed in 1976 to expand and improve the health of Native Americans, and was amended in 2010 to extend the period of coverage and modernize the services offered under the Act. IHCIA ensures that Native American individuals and tribes in New Jersey have access to quality health care, including medical, dental, and mental health services. The Act also guarantees that tribes and tribal organizations have the right to negotiate with the federal government for better health services. Key provisions of the Act include increased access to health care through the Indian Health Services, improved access to insurance coverage, and the protection of Native American health rights. Additionally, IHCIA has expanded public health and prevention services, including: disease prevention, health promotion, access to mental health services, substance use treatment, suicide prevention, and environmental health programs. The Act also provides funding for Native American health care providers, as well as grants to support health care research and traditional healing practices. In short, the Indian Health Care Improvement Act is an important piece of legislation that provides increased access to quality health care and services to Native Americans living in New Jersey, as well as throughout the United States. The Act ensures that Native Americans are provided with the same rights and access to health services that all Americans have.

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