The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall on Thursday, Aug. 1, from 6 to 7 p.m., to discuss how Medicaid expansion supports the health of American Indian communities.
Event participants include:
- Tony V. Locklear, Tribal Liaison Consultant, NCDHHS
- Gwynneth Wildcatt, Director of Accessibility, Resources and Member Services, Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority
- Phyllis Locklear, Tribal Engagement & Cultural Competency Specialist, WellCare Health Plans
North Carolina Medicaid now covers more people ages 19 through 64 years old, including members of the American Indian community. Medicaid supports the health of American Indian communities through increased access to routine and specialized health services, from regular check-ups to care for ongoing conditions like heart disease and diabetes. To ensure people can get the appointments, medications and treatments they need, Medicaid covers health premiums and most services, and co-pays are never more than $4.
Fireside chat and tele-town hall panelists will discuss the following:
- Who is newly eligible for Medicaid under expansion
- What health services and costs Medicaid covers
- Ways to apply for Medicaid or other health care coverage
- Tribal-specific options and resources, including tribal liaisons
Federally recognized tribal members or individuals who qualify for services through Indian Health Service (IHS) may be able to choose how to receive Medicaid services. The NCDHHS Medicaid expansion website provides information on eligibility, how to apply and where to find support. Individuals can also connect with state support teams or tribal liaisons to better understand their health care coverage options, complete Medicaid applications and navigate enrollment.
The fireside chat will stream live from the NCDHHS Facebook, X (Twitter) and YouTube accounts, where viewers can submit questions. The event also includes a tele-town hall, which invites people by phone to listen in and submit questions. People can dial into the event by calling 855-756-7520 Ext. 109745#.
Those joining the event will have the opportunity to ask questions about Medicaid expansion, eligibility and enrollment as well as tribal-specific options and resources.