Carson City, NV March 07, 2024
American Indians and Alaskan Natives seeking health care in the Reno-Sparks area will soon benefit from a collaboration between the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and the Reno Sparks Tribal Health Center (RSTHC).
Through a coordinated effort between RSTHC and Nevada Medicaid the Tribal clinic is now designated as a Tribal Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), which allows RSTHC to pay a higher rate to specialists providing care to Tribal patients.
“This designation is a win-win,” said Tribal Health Center Director Angie Wilson. “It will benefit patients seeking care, providers managing their business, our Tribe as we work to improve the health of the community, and as a savings to the State budget.”
The designation was approved by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This approval allows enrolled Tribal health clinics who wish to designate themselves as a Tribal FQHC to negotiate payment rates with specialist providers that are higher than the typical State Medicaid payment rates.
Combined with Tribal Federal Medical Assistance Percentages (FMAP) of 100%, more money will stay in Nevada using this model.
“We are proud of our partnership with the Reno Sparks Tribal Health Center and know this will benefit patients needing specialty care,” said Monica Schiffer, Tribal Liaison for Nevada Medicaid. “We hope to build on the success of this effort with other Tribal clinics throughout the state.”
The Reno Sparks Tribal Health Center is Nevada’s largest Tribal health center, with about 6,000 active patients.
“Tribal patients will have an easier time accessing care, and I hope it will help all those who suffer from chronic diseases. Thank you to our Tribal Clinic staff for partnering with the State on this important initiative,” said Reno-Sparks Indian Colony Chairman Daryl D. Gardipe.
The Reno Sparks Tribal Health Center is currently developing Care Coordination Plans with community providers to reimburse them for services provided.
To apply for Medicaid or other benefits go to Access Nevada.