Phoenix – October 13, 2026 -- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona Health Choice (AZ Blue Health Choice) brought more than 200 tribal leaders, healthcare professionals, educators and partners to Flagstaff for the 13th Annual Tribal Summit, as the insurer serves members from 17 tribal nations.
Summit focuses on maternal, behavioral and workforce issues
The event, themed "Unity in Action: Bridging Systems, Strengthening Communities," centered on collaboration and shared learning to improve health outcomes across Arizona's tribal nations. Discussions covered maternal and child health, behavioral health, Indigenous health equity, workforce development and culturally responsive approaches to care.
Attendees shared best practices, explored emerging challenges and identified opportunities to strengthen support. The summit has served as a forum for tribal health leaders and organizations for more than a decade.
Access barriers shape the payer's tribal strategy
Tribal nations face geographic barriers, provider shortages and longstanding health disparities that affect access to care. AZ Blue Health Choice works with tribal nations, providers and organizations to expand access, support culturally responsive services and fund community well-being programs.
Heather Carter, CEO of AZ Blue Health Choice, said strong partnerships are essential to healthier communities and that the summit's participants help shape solutions across Arizona.
Insurer details year's tribal programs
Over the past year, AZ Blue Health Choice's efforts included food distribution events supporting hundreds of families and participation in tribal health and wellness events. The insurer also provided telehealth resources and access to traditional healing services through its Traditional Practitioner Program.