TL/DR –
New Mexico is one of four states to secure federal funding through Medicaid to cover traditional health care practices for Native Americans, a practice which had not previously been covered. The funding comes after the state included traditional healing practices in its 1115 Waiver demonstration approval request in December 2022. Medicaid Director Dana Flannery states that this will help serve more people within the health care system, offering Medicaid reimbursement to practitioners in approved facilities who opt to participate.
New Mexico Secures Medicaid Funding for Traditional Health Care Practices
New Mexico is now among four states that have secured Medicaid funding to cover traditional health care practices for Native Americans; a benefit that was not previously covered by Medicaid. The New Mexico Health Care Authority announced this achievement following New Mexico’s inclusion of traditional healing practices in its 1115 Waiver demonstration approval request back in December 2022.
As stated by Medicaid Director Dana Flannery, this move is set to serve more people within New Mexico’s health care system. “With traditional health practices varying greatly among tribes, pueblos and Nations, it is with great pride that New Mexico can now offer Medicaid reimbursement to practitioners in approved facilities who choose to join,” said Flannery. “This is a significant stride towards our strategic plan of a thriving New Mexico that provides comprehensive health care for all.”
Make sure to follow us on Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube for the latest updates.
Participating Facilities and Next Steps
State workers have begun implementing the benefit with willing providers. The Health Care Authority indicates that potential participating facilities may include Indian Health Services, Urban Indian Organizations — subject to legislative funding since there is not a 100% federal match, and Tribal 638 facilities.
For further details about the New Mexico 1115 Waiver, click here. Also, keep updated on the latest news with the KOAT app, available for download now.
—
Read More Health & Wellness News ; US News