The Affordable Care Act requires all Americans to carry health insurance but most Alaska Natives are exempt.

The law exempts all members of federally recognized tribes, including those in Alaska, plus shareholders of Alaska Native corporations. But Alaska Natives who don't fall into those categories can request a "hardship exception" if they are eligible for care through the Indian Health Service.

Despite the exemption, Alaska Natives can still obtain coverage through the health exchanges that went online on October 1. The Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium received a grant to help Natives enroll.

Get the Story:
Alaska Natives Exempt from Affordable Care Act (KTUU 10/9)
Tribe Members Watch And Wait On ACA (KOBI 10/8)
For Native Americans, health care is changing (The Battle Creek Enquirer 10/7)

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