Eligibility
The Indian Health Service (IHS) provides health care for members and descendants of federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) Tribes. Each Tribal Nation is sovereign, maintaining a government-to-government relationship with the United States, and has the right to set its own criteria for enrollment and descendancy.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility for IHS services is outlined in the Indian Health Manual (Part 2, Chapter 1) . According to federal policy:
- Individuals are eligible if they are a member of a federally recognized American Indian and/or Alaska Native tribe, or descendant of a member of a federally recognized tribe, or belong to the community served by IHS, unless otherwise excluded by law.
- Any reasonable factor indicating Indian descent may be considered in determining eligibility.
- If there is any doubt about eligibility and an individual requires immediate medical attention, services will be provided while eligibility is confirmed (per 42 C.F.R. § 136.12(b)).
Other Eligible Individuals
The Indian Health Manual also allows services for certain non-Indian individuals in specific circumstances:
- Children: A natural, adopted, stepchild, foster child, or legal ward of an eligible AI/AN individual, until age 19 – eligible for all IHS services.
- Pregnant Women: A non-Indian woman pregnant with an eligible AI/AN individual’s child – eligible for all IHS services during pregnancy and postpartum care (typically six weeks after delivery).
- Emergency Care: Any person who comes to PIMC’s Emergency Department will receive medically necessary stabilizing treatment.
Questions About Eligibility?
If you are unsure about your eligibility for services at PIMC, please contact our Patient Registration Office at 602-263-1200 for guidance and assistance.
