This brief examines the health coverage, access to care and health status of American Indians and Alaska Natives across the country.  Although the U.S. government has an established responsibility through tribal agreements to provide health care services to members of federally recognized Indian tribes, many American Indians and Alaska Natives lack access to health care.  

The brief gives an overview of the some of the demographic factors that influence the health and insurance coverage of American Indians and Alaska Natives.  It examines the relatively high rates of chronic conditions experienced by American Indians and Alaska Natives compared to other racial and ethnic groups.  

The brief also provides information about the Indian Health Service and health coverage and access to care for this population.

Issue Brief (.pdf)