Proposed Medicaid cuts could impact tribal healthcare

Federal lawmakers are considering deep cuts to Medicaid, which experts say could have devastating effects on Indigenous communities. Medicaid provides critical funding for Indian Health Service and tribal healthcare facilities, covering 31% of Native Americans—nearly half of them children. Advocates warn that funding reductions could lead to staff layoffs, service cuts, and even facility closures, particularly in rural and urban Native communities. The National Council of Urban Indian Health urges tribal advocates to contact lawmakers to protect funding.