Advocacy

AZ State CapitolPURPOSE

Per A.R.S. 36-2902.01 the AACIHC is established…to give tribal governments, tribal organizations and urban Indian health care organizations in this state, representation in shaping Medicaid and health care policies and laws that impact the populations they serve.
 

2020 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

Every year, the Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care (AACIHC) creates a legislative agenda comprising of priorities that will positively impact the Indian Health Care System. This year three priorities are being advocated for. Ensure you stay updated with our weekly updates and by signing up on the Request to Speak (RTS) system.  

 

 

2020 AACIHC Proirities:  

  • Oral Health for Adults: Lifting Medicaid caps for Tribal and Indian Health Services (IHS) Health Care Facilities

Bill #: HB 2244- AHCCCS; dental services; Native Americans

Sponsor:  Representative T. J. Shope

Summary: Authorizes AHCCCS to seek CMS approval to reimburse Indian health care dental providers that receive 100% FMAP for the cost of dental services in excess of limits in place for ALTCS beneficiaries and adult emergency dental coverage that are currently capped at $1,000 per member per year.

  • Creation of a 6th Area Health Education Center that Focuses on the Indian Health System

Bill #: HB 2296- Arizona health education centers; increase

Sponsor: Representative T.J. Shope

Summary: Creates a sixth Area Health Education Center (AHEC) that will focus on the Indian Health System. AHECs are committed to expanding the health care workforce while maximizing diversity and facilitating distribution , especially in rural and underserved communities and offer creative, hands-on and innovative health center curriculum for pre-college level students.

  • Creating Uncapped Dental Benefit for Pregnant Women Eligible for Medicaid

Bill #: SB 1170- AHCCCS; Pregnant Women; Dental Care

Sponsor: Senator Carter

Summary: Requires AHCCCS contractors to provide comprehensive dental care to eligible pregnant women and appropriates money to AHCCCS to provide the dental services. 

 

    Request to speak

     

    REQUEST TO SPEAK:

    Ensure you stay updated by creating a Request to Speak (RTS) account. The RTS system is a program designed for the public (and lobbyists) to weigh in on legislation and if you wish, sign up to speak in committee. You can use the RTS system to support or oppose legislation and provide your reasons why. *New RTS system accounts are required to be activated in person at the Arizona State Legislature.*

    Need and account? Create an RTS account

    Already have an RTS account? Sign on the RTS

    ARIZONA CAPITOL TELEVISION:

    View live proceedings here.