Native News Weekly (November 19, 2023): D.C. Briefs
WASHINGTON — In addition to articles already covered by Native News Online, here is a roundup of other news released from Washington, D.C. that impacts Indian Country recently.
Open Enrollment Season for the Federal Marketplace for Healthcare Insurance Begins
The Marketplace Open Enrollment at www.HealthCare.gov is now active until January 15, 2024. Individuals should enroll by December 15 for coverage to start on January 1.
American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) can enroll in a Marketplace plan at any time; however, enrollment during the open season is encouraged to ensure non-tribal family members are covered for the year. Marketplace Navigators are available to assist with the process, including assessing zero-premium or low-cost premium plan eligibility. Please visit www.healthcare.gov/find-assistance and this Health Coverage Options for AI/ANs guide for more information.
CMS Releases Tribal Protections in Medicaid and CHIP Managed Care Oversight Toolkit
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released a tribal protecticions in Medicaid and CHIP Managed Care Oversight toolkit.The toolkit provides resources for states, managed care plans, and Indian Health Care Providers (IHCP) to maximize the benefits of Medicaid and CHIP managed care for AI/AN enrollees and the IHCPs consistent with the statutory and regulatory Indian managed care protections.
This is part of CMS efforts to advance health equity, expand coverage, and improve health outcomes for individuals who rely on Medicaid and CHIP.
Save the Date – Listening Session on Hib Vaccine Recommendations for AI/AN Infants
The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is inviting tribes and tribal organizations to provide input on potential updates to the preferential recommendation language for Hib vaccines for American Indian and Alaska Native infants. The vaccine provides early protection against bacterial H. influenzae meningitis. CDC, through the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, is re-evaluating the preferential language for this vaccine (Vaxelis) now that data on antibody response after the first dose is available. The listening session will be on January 9, 2024, at 2:00pm EST. Please see this announcement for more details.
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