Update from "Kewa Workgroup" meeting on 4/17/13

Good Afternoon All,

 

Just wanted to give a brief overview about what was discussed at the Work group meeting on Wednesday April 17.

 

The Center on law and poverty gave an brief explanation of the what direction the Health Insurance is taking and its currant status and structure. 

 

Identified known members of the Executive Board of the Exchange, and what we can do to influence the board.

 

It is likely that we will end up with a state-federal partnership rather than a State-based exchange

 

discussed the conference call that took place on Monday regarding the Navigator grants for tribes.  In a State-based Exchange it is assumed that the state will fund the navigator portion of the exchange as well as outreach.  in a State/Federal partnership or Federal Exchange Tribes can take advantage of the recently released navigator grant. We need clarification on whether or not NM is going to end up as a State/Federal partnership.

 

Michael Hely from Legislative Council Services added to the explanation of the Health Insurance Exchange as well as the outcome of the HB 376 effort.

 

Representative Madalena also explained his frustration with the outcome of the legislative session.  It was suggested that at the beginning of the interim committee sessions with would be helpful to organize a informational educational session for the legislators about Native American Law and tribal Sovereignty.

 

I gave a report from the Medicaid Advisory Committee meeting on Monday.  I have attached the full report to this email.  Basically no new information and as usual we can expect to be left in the dark when it comes to Centennial Care. Julie "Frankly, sees no need for more consultation sessions with Tribes."

 

some house keeping issues for the committee Anthony asked that we rename this "committee" "workgroup" what ever we are Kewa would like to separate its self in name form this group, because Kewa Pueblo does not own this group. So it was suggested that everyone should submit a new name to call ourselves. So start the suggestions. The blog that I started to share the information is called Native American Healthcare Alliance, but I think that is to generic and the name needs to be more New Mexican.  "Hano" committee/council was suggested (not sure on spelling)

 

Also it was suggested that we need a chairperson for coordinate our efforts, Evelyn nominated me, and I am willing to take it on as long as there are no objections.