The Newest Federally Recognized Tribe Wants Better Healthcare. It May Be On Its Own.

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, recently recognized as the 575th federally recognized tribe, faces significant healthcare challenges despite potential access to federal funding. The Indian Health Service (IHS), which could provide critical support, is chronically underfunded, and the nearest facility is over two hours away for most Lumbee citizens in Robeson County, an area with high poverty and poor health outcomes.