Medicaid cuts threaten tribal clinics in Oregon

The Ko-Kwel Wellness Centers in Coos Bay and Eugene, operated by the Coquille Indian Tribe, are preparing for possible service interruptions as Medicaid cuts loom, according to Underscore Native News. About 30% of Native people younger than 65 are enrolled in Medicaid, which accounted for nearly two-thirds of third-party revenue for the Indian Health Service system of care in 2023, according to the National Indian Health Board.

Caryn Mickelson, CEO of the Coquille Indian Tribe’s Health and Wellness Division, said the cuts could impact the wider community. “Even if the tribe is not directly impacted by any type of federal funding or state funding adjustments, if our community health system is affected, that reduces access for our tribal clients as well,” Mickelson was quoted as saying. Coquille Chairwoman Brenda Meade added, “We as tribal nations are serving some of the most vulnerable populations in our nation. We’re doing very good work.”