Hello. This is Cathy Chavers, District I Representative for the Bois Forte Reservation Tribal Council. Many Band members have questions about recent changes to the Bois Forte Band’s Contract Health Program. This is the first in a series of podcasts where I hope to answer questions for you.
In this first podcast, I’m plan to tackle three frequently asked questions about access to the program.
Due to cuts in the state of Minnesota’s medical assistance program, more applicants for health coverage from Bois Forte due to the slow economy, and our need to cover catastrophic cases, our contract health resources have been put under stress.
In this podcast, I’m going to answer the following frequently asked questions about accessing the Contract Health Program:
Number one – getting your contract health card
The Bois Forte Contract Health Program has a formula to determine eligibility, and the contract health application asks for specific documentation. Please answer the questions including address and income, sign the application, and include copies of any insurance cards you have. If you fail to submit any of this information, it takes longer to process your application.
Number two – transferring your records
If you have not been a patient at the Bois Forte Medical Clinic, you can sign a release of information so that we can get a copy of your medical records from your current provider. Having these records will provide our staff with valuable information about your medical history and any medical conditions you have.
Number three – what to bring to clinic visits
Each time you visit the Bois Forte Medical Clinic, bring your current insurance information; you will be asked to present it. You will also be asked if there are any changes in your medical history, address and telephone numbers.
If you want more information or have more questions about the changes to contract health, please call Connie Harju at (218) 223-1041 or email her at charju@boisforte-nsn.gov. Thanks.