Urban Indian Health Confer Act

Urban Indian Health Confer Act

This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to confer with urban Indian organizations regarding health care for American Indians and Alaska Natives living in urban areas.

Currently, only the Indian Health Service (IHS) is required to confer with urban Indian organizations on matters relating to the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. The bill requires HHS to ensure that the IHS and other agencies and offices within HHS confer with urban Indian organizations on (1) matters relating to the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, and (2) other provisions of law relating to health care for American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Bill 117 HR 5221, also known as the Urban Indian Health Confer Act, aims to improve the health care services available to urban Native American populations. The bill recognizes the unique health care needs of urban Indians and seeks to address the disparities they face in accessing quality care.

The legislation calls for the establishment of an Urban Indian Health Confer program, which would provide grants to urban Indian organizations to expand and improve health care services for their communities. These grants would support a wide range of health care initiatives, including primary care services, mental health and substance abuse treatment, and preventive care programs.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration between urban Indian organizations and other health care providers, such as hospitals and clinics, to ensure that urban Native Americans have access to a comprehensive and culturally competent health care system. Overall, Bill 117 HR 5221 aims to address the health care needs of urban Native American populations and improve their overall health outcomes. By providing funding and support for urban Indian health organizations, the legislation seeks to reduce disparities in health care access and improve the quality of care available to urban Native Americans.