Open enrollment is now over for millions of Americans including American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) and it is now tax season! Members of federally recognized Tribes have a special monthly enrollment period and they can enroll in health coverage throughout the year. They can also use their Indian Health Service facility as their primary care provider. IHS is not considered Health Insurance so to avoid paying the Shared Responsibility Payment for not holding minimum essential coverage AI/AN’S must file an exemption! Form 8965, found at https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8965.pdf must be included. Visit www.healthcare.gov for more information.
It is still important for AI/AN individuals and families to learn about their insurance options and get covered. Not only do the individuals benefit from insurance but it also helps Indian Health Service facilities, Tribal 638 and urban clinics as well. Through third party billing, these resources become more available to everyone because those Purchased and Referred Care dollars go right back into the facilities.