Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service wishes you and your family a happy and healthy holiday season. As we reflect on the year, we want to express our deepest appreciation to the dedicated individuals who serve at IHS and across the Indian health system. Your dedication to our patients, your support for tribal and urban communities, and your unwavering commitment to our mission do not go unnoticed. You are the heart of our work, and we are grateful for all that you do. This season is a meaningful time to gather with loved ones and honor the values that bind us together. As we observe Native American Heritage Month in November and Native American Heritage Day on November 28, we are reminded of the languages, traditions, and stories that embody the strength and resilience of Native people. May we continue to lift up the enduring strength and contributions of Native communities ensuring they inspire and guide generations to come. Thank you for your service, your compassion, and your commitment to the health and well-being of the communities we are honored to serve.

The Indian Health Service Health Information Technology Modernization Program continued to prioritize collaboration and engagement with the Lawton Service Unit in Oklahoma, analyzing PATH EHR functionality, usability, and compatibility in a real-world health care environment. In preparation for rollout, the PATH team will continue to work hand in hand with Lawton to host events at the pilot site. To learn more about the recent activities at the pilot site, check out this month’s blog: https://lnkd.in/e7BY_h6A #ModernizeHealth #HealthITModernization

Early dementia detection can make a life-changing difference. Our Alzheimer’s and Community Health Representative (CHR) programs are proving the power of partnerships. Through the CHR Early Dementia Detection Initiative, 20 CHR programs screened nearly 1,000 people this year using the simple Mini-Cog tool, helping more community members take the first step toward timely diagnosis and care. Learn how this collaboration combines clinical expertise with trusted relationships to expand early dementia screening: bit.ly/3KTemm8

The IHS is announcing the funding of several high-priority health care infrastructure projects through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Nonrecurring Expenses Fund (NEF) in fiscal year 2025. The NEF permits HHS to use unobligated balances of expired discretionary funds for capital acquisitions necessary for the operation of the Department, specifically information technology and facilities infrastructure acquisitions.  These projects reflect IHS’s continued commitment to expanding access to quality health care services in tribal communities. Read more: https://bit.ly/3Kfnq4D

The Indian Health Service announced the selection of seven projects for new or expanded health care facilities through the IHS Joint Venture Construction Program. For over 30 years, this program has strengthened partnerships with tribes across the country and expanded access to comprehensive, culturally appropriate health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people. Under the program, tribes or tribal organizations construct, acquire, or renovate a health care facility using non-IHS funds, and lease it to IHS at no cost for 20 years. In return, IHS requests funding from Congress to staff, operate, and maintain the facility. The selected projects are: • Ak-Chin Indian Community – Maricopa, Arizona • Arctic Slope Native Association – Utqiaġvik, Alaska • Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma – Hugo, Oklahoma • Citizen Potawatomi Nation – Asher, Oklahoma • Indian Health Council, Inc. and Pala Band of Mission Indians – Valley Center, California • Lower Brule Sioux Tribe – Lower Brule, South Dakota • Muscogee Creek Nation of Oklahoma – Okmulgee, Oklahoma Read more: https://lnkd.in/eZMHNvRa

The IHS Dementia Care Pathway is a step-by-step guide that helps providers recognize early signs of dementia, evaluate symptoms, and support families with informed care planning. This new resource is created by and for providers serving American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Whether you're new to memory screening or looking to strengthen your approach, this new tool offers a practical guide to diagnosis and care across every stage. Explore the full pathway here: bit.ly/45XmCYT

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor and uplift the family members, friends, and community members who care for loved ones across Indian Country. In American Indian and Alaska Native communities, caregiving is more than a responsibility — it is a reflection of our values, traditions, and deep respect for our elders and families. “Caregiving taught me the true essence of strength, purpose, and resilience. Though the journey was not easy, ensuring our loved one could remain at home in their final days was an honor beyond measure—one that will stay with us always,” said Acting Deputy Director for Management Operations Dr. Rose Weahkee. Family caregivers embody love, strength, and resilience. This month, we honor their compassion and encourage caregivers to care for themselves, too. Read more in the IHS Blog: https://bit.ly/4hX0X93 Learn more about caregiver support and resources from the Indian Health Service: 👉 IHS Elder Care Program: https://lnkd.in/et7h87h4 👉 IHS Alzheimer’s & Dementia Caregiver Resources: https://lnkd.in/eJjREudX #FamilyCaregiversMonth #NativeHealth #CaregiverSupport #TribalHealth #ElderCare

Join us at the next monthly Division of Sanitation Facilities Construction virtual career fair on Tuesday, November 18, at 2:00 PM ET. You’ll have the opportunity to: • Connect directly with recruiters. • Learn about employment opportunities across the Division of Sanitation Facilities Construction.  • Explore the benefits of working with the IHS. • Get your questions answered live. Register today and take the first step toward an exciting future with the IHS: https://lnkd.in/ecxY_EmR

Caregivers bring strength, love, and patience to those living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Their dedication makes a difference every day, but the work can be challenging. Health care providers can help by connecting caregivers with tools that make the journey easier. These resources offer guidance on building caregiving skills, supporting loved ones, and maintaining personal well-being. Explore the IHS website for caregiver trainings, tip sheets, and more. bit.ly/4qjYDwA