Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The American Samoa Medicaid State Agency proudly announces a major milestone in expanding access to off-island healthcare: Straub Medical Center, part of the Hawai‘i Pacific Health (HPH) system, is now officially enrolled as a Medicaid provider for the territory. This agreement marks a significant step forward in strengthening the healthcare options available to American Samoa’s Medicaid beneficiaries Medicare eligibility. After the first year, the agency will evaluate the partnership and consider expanding referral options.

“This is a big win for our people,” said Luisa Kuaea, Medicaid Director. “Straub’s enrollment gives our residents access to high-quality care, and reflects our commitment to expanding the provider network, improving health outcomes, and restoring trust in how we manage off-island referrals.”

The agreement includes clearly defined terms for prior authorization, referral timelines, and reimbursement procedures, offering transparency and consistency for both patients and providers. It also ensures compliance with federal Medicaid guidelines and safeguards patient rights under HIPAA, civil rights laws, and documentation standards.

Straub Medical Center now joins the American Samoa Medicaid Provider Network, a significant achievement for the territory. The American Samoa Medicaid State Agency is actively engaging additional hospitals and specialty providers in Hawai‘i to improve access to quality healthcare for Medicaid beneficiaries.

About ASMSA

The American Samoa Medicaid State Agency administers the territory’s Medicaid program with a focus on improving access to quality healthcare for eligible residents.

The agency supports a range of critical services, including hospital care, off-island medical referrals, emergency transportation, and other essential benefits. Guided by federal standards and local priorities, the agency is committed to responsible stewardship of public funds, program integrity, and advancing health equity for the people of American Samoa.