IHS Releases FAQs Document Regarding FTCA Extension to UIOs

On April 23, the Indian Health Service (IHS) released a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document regarding Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) Coverage for Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs). This FAQ document follows Congress’ January 3, 2021 amendment to Title V of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. The Amendment added Section 1660i “Deeming an Urban Indian organization and employees thereof to be a part of the public health service for the purposes of certain claims for personal injury”, and extends FTCA coverage to UIOs and their employees to the same extent and in the same manner as to Tribes and Tribal Organizations.

Why Does this Matter to UIOs?:

FTCA coverage for UIO allows for funding that would have been spent on the purchase of medical malpractice insurance to be used on programs and services that benefit their clients.

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