FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP)-The Navajo Nation says it is seeking to become one of the first Native American tribes to create its own managed health care entity.

The tribe recently announced it plans to contract with Molina Healthcare to work toward a managed health care offering under New Mexico’s Centennial Care Medicaid program.

Navajo Nation Counselor Daniel Tso says the new entity will improve access and quality of health care on the Navajo Nation.

About 75,000 Navajos living in New Mexico are eligible for Medicaid. Under provisions established by the federal government, each state is allowed to structure and tailor their Medicaid programs.