Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Two new Medicaid state planning amendments are expected to go into effect soon for American Samoa.

Children’s orthodontics and dialysis coverage for Hope Dialysis have been submitted for approval after The American Samoa Medicaid State Agency working together with the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS), added the two amendments.

It is expected to be approved soon and retroactive to October 1, 2024. Medicaid Director Sandra King Young said, "With the increase in the local match for FY2025, we are very happy to be able to add new services to the Medicaid program.”

With orthodontics, the objective is to address the need for American Samoa’s children (21 years and under) to receive orthodontic services but also to bring onboard private dentists into the Medicaid program.

“Providing orthodontic services for our children is very important to their overall general health, their confidence and their future,” the release said.

The expanded program through Hope Dialysis will expand the dialysis slots available for patients.

 This new service will also include coverage for dentures.