October 22, 2024: IHS Updates for Tribes and Tribal and Urban Indian Organizations

The bi-weekly update provides up-to-date information on recent events, meetings, conferences, upcoming deadlines, and recognition of the work being done across the Indian Health Service, other federal agencies, and Indian Country. For more information or questions, please email IHSPublicAffairsStaff@ihs.gov.

Accomplishments Report Highlights Myriad of Agency Advancements Over the Past Year

During her two years as director of the Indian Health Service, Roselyn Tso has taken to heart the agency’s mission to improve the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives. The director is pleased to share the latest accomplishments report detailing some of the agency’s shared milestones and successes from the past year. This snapshot of our shared successes represents the endless commitment and countless hours of work from each and every member of the IHS staff. Ms. Tso hopes you consider it a testament to the work that you do on a daily basis in service to those who entrust their care to us. Read the report here.

Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program to Provide Traditional Health Care Practices

On October 16, HHS, through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, approved—for the first time ever—Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program to cover traditional health care practices provided by IHS facilities, tribal facilities, and urban Indian organizations in the states of Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Oregon.

The IHS is the 17th largest health care system in the nation. Director Roselyn Tso is thrilled by this announcement. American Indians and Alaska Natives have been endowed by our ancestors with a deep and priceless wealth of traditional healing knowledge. These practices have sustained our people's health for generations and continue to serve as a vital link between culture, science, and wellness in many of our communities. Ms. Tso extends her appreciation to the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to move forward with covering this care, and the IHS is honored to be a partner in this essential work. Learn more here.

Commemorating Indigenous Peoples Day — October 14

On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, celebrated on October 14, IHS proudly recognized the remarkable contributions, enduring strength, and resilience of Indigenous peoples and tribal communities across the country. Indigenous peoples have a rich history of thriving on this land, and their legacy is deeply woven into our nation’s story. The day offered an opportunity to honor the diverse heritage of America’s original peoples and the vibrant tribal Nations that continue to flourish today. As we move forward, we do so with deep respect for the cultural richness of Indigenous communities, ensuring that their health and well-being remain at the forefront of our collective journey toward a brighter and healthier future.

Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrated at Kansas State University

On October 14, Ms. Tso had the honor of speaking at Kansas State University for Indigenous Peoples’ Day and shared ways we can work together to build healthy communities, reclaim Indigenous lifeways, and navigate the ongoing legacy of colonization. Reflecting on her journey as director of the Indian Health Service, Ms. Tso reflected on the resilience she has seen in our communities—from elders sharing their wisdom to youth leading language revitalization and cultural reclamation. As we look to the future, she encourages us all to think about the role we play in this intergenerational effort. By connecting with our past and uplifting our youth, we can create a future where our communities are not just surviving, but also thriving. Let’s continue this work together, whether through food sovereignty, health care, or education, and dismantle the structures of colonization to ensure Indigenous people flourish in body, mind, and spirit.

IHS Announces Appointments to Senior Executive Service and Acting Associate Directors

Ms. Tso asks you to join her in congratulating three individuals on their new appointments. The IHS is pleased to announce that Dr. Lisa Majewski, an enrolled member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, has been elevated to the level of Senior Executive Service, while Cmdr. Martin Smith and Cmdr. Tracy Sanchez were recently named acting associate directors. This is a tremendous accomplishment for each of them and supports the agency’s efforts to empower and strengthen leadership at every level across the Indian health system.

Dr. Lisa Majewski has been selected as the permanent Director for the Office of Quality, while Cmdr. Martin Smith, RS, MPH, has received a temporary appointment as the acting associate director for the Office of Environmental Health and Engineering, and Cmdr. Tracy Sanchez will be acting associate director for the Office of Resource Access and Partnerships.

 Tso extends her congratulations once more to Dr. Lisa Majewski and Cmdrs. Martin Smith and Tracy Sanchez on your appointments and offers her heartfelt appreciation for their continued dedication to the Indian Health Service, contributing to the highest quality of care for the American Indian and Alaska Native communities that we proudly serve.

(Left to Right) Dr. Lisa Majewski, Cmdr. Martin Smith, and Cmdr. Tracy Sanchez

Director Tso Visits the Great Plains Area

At the start of her term as IHS Director, Ms. Tso made a commitment to spend half of her time traveling Indian Country to hear health concerns and issues directly from tribal leadership and health care staff. Earlier this month, that commitment took Ms. Tso to the Pine Ridge Service Unit in the Great Plains Area. The Service Unit is comprised of the Pine Ridge Hospital, Kyle Health Center, Wanblee Health Center, and the LaCreek Health Center that combined serves a Lakota Indian population of more than 45,000. She was delighted to join them during their general staff meeting, share some brief remarks, and tour their facility.

During her time there, the director had the opportunity to visit the Pine Ridge VA Clinic and see the great work they are doing for Native Veterans. Ms. Tso also toured the Makoce Agriculture Department in the Porcupine District of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Their work to promote food sovereignty and sustainable agricultural development is inspiring. The day also included a visit to the Wounded Knee Massacre Monument to pay respects to the victims of that tragic and traumatic event.

Ms. Tso is honored to represent the thousands of IHS health care professions that deliver incredible care to our American Indian and Alaska Native patients here and across the country, each day.

Visit to Yale Law School Native American Law Students Association

On October 9, Ms. Tso had the privilege of leading a conversation with students and faculty at the Solomon Center for Health Law and Policy at Yale Law School in New Haven, Connecticut. She takes immense pride in speaking about the unique challenges faced by tribal communities, but also the progress being made in providing the highest level of health care throughout Indian Country. Only through listening and sharing the voices of those most affected will we be able to make significant and meaningful change.

Ms. Tso extends her appreciation to the Yale Law School Native American Law Students Association, the Health Law and Policy Students Association, and the Solomon Center for Health Law and Policy for organizing the event, as well as to Yale Professor Abbe Gluck and Stanford Professor Elizabeth Reese for moderating.

National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Planning Meeting on the Well-Being of Transgender and Gender Diverse Populations

On October 11, Ms. Tso had the opportunity to attend the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s planning meeting on the Well-Being of Transgender and Gender Diverse Populations. The meeting focused on strategies to increase engagement among stakeholders and philanthropists, as well as ways to strengthen the evidence base for supporting these populations. The IHS is fully committed to promoting the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native transgender and gender diverse individuals. Since 2019, IHS has implemented various initiatives, including training staff to collect sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data. This data allows providers to offer comprehensive care, including gender-affirming services, STI and HIV screenings, and behavioral health interventions for Two-Spirit and LGBTQ+ individuals. With the launch of Circular No. 23-02 in 2023, IHS standardized the capture of SOGI information across patient records. These efforts reflect IHS’s ongoing dedication to health equity and quality care for all.

HHS Assistant Secretary for Health Adm. Rachel Levine and Ms. Tso at the NASEM planning meeting

Advancing Health Equity at Massachusetts Tribal and Indigenous Health Summit

On October 15, Ms. Tso spoke at the Massachusetts Tribal and Indigenous Health Summitto address one of the most pressing issues in our Native communities: advancing health equity for Indigenous peoples. This theme reflects the ongoing commitment of the Indian Health Service to innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. It drives our mission to provide equitable health care for Native communities, ensuring our people receive the quality care they deserve while honoring the unique cultural and historical factors that shape our health and well-being. Ms. Tso thanks everyone dedicated to advancing health equity for Indigenous peoples. We stand on the shoulders of our ancestors, and through their strength, we will continue building healthy, vibrant communities.

Civitas Networks Hosts Health Annual Conference

On October 16, Ms. Tso was able to attend the Civitas Networks for Health Annual Conference in Detroit, Michigan, where she shared the Indian Health Service’s commitment to advancing health through innovative strategies. The conference theme, “Bridging Data and Doing,” perfectly aligns with the mission at IHS. Data isn’t just a tool for us; it serves as the foundation for driving meaningful improvements in health care outcomes for Native communities. Data modernization plays a crucial role in achieving health equity, as access to accurate, timely information allows us to better identify disparities and design targeted interventions.

Our partnerships with organizations like Civitas—whether through health information exchanges, regional health improvement collaboratives, or quality improvement organizations—are essential to these efforts. Together, we can close gaps in care delivery and improve health outcomes for tribal communities throughout Indian Country.

Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board Quarterly Meeting and Yakama Service Unit Visit

On October 17, Ms. Tso attended the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board Quarterly Board Meeting and shared updates on the progress within the Indian Health Service and discussed her priorities as Director. It is always an honor for the director to travel throughout Indian Country, meeting with tribal leaders, governments, and urban Indian health partners, to gain a deeper understanding of both national and regional issues affecting our communities.

While in Washington, Ms. Tso also visited the Yakama Service Unit and had the opportunity to meet with its leadership and dedicated staff. She was inspired by the great work they’re doing to serve their community and appreciates their continued commitment to improving health outcomes for Native people. Ms. Tso extends her gratitude to the NPAIHB for their tireless efforts to enhance the health and well-being of tribal members. Their advocacy and leadership are vital in shaping stronger public health outcomes for Native Americans, both in their region and across the country. She looks forward to continuing our collaboration to advance the health and social conditions of our communities.

Providing remarks for the NPAIHB Quarterly Meeting

Visiting the Yakama Service Unit

Dedication Ceremony for Healthcare Community Forever Stamp

On October 10, IHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Loretta Christensen delivered remarks as part of a dedication ceremony at HHS headquarters to pay tribute to the healthcare community with a new commemorative Forever stamp. The event was hosted by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and Postmaster General Louis DeJoy. In her remarks, Dr. Christensen acknowledged the relentless dedication and courage that healthcare teams exhibit each day. She also gave special thanks to all the IHS healthcare workers who often work under challenging conditions to deliver top-quality care to American Indian and Alaska Native patients with “joy, equanimity, compassion and love.” Watch the dedication here.

Chief Medical Officer Participates in American Heart Association Convening

Last week, the American Heart Association gathered innovators and leaders with a shared vision to transform how we prevent and treat diet-related conditions through the Health Care by Food (HCXF) initiative.

IHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Loretta Christensen attended the event, which aims to make Food Is Medicine a covered benefit, changing and strengthening our approach to health care. The attendees included academia, policy, social services, industry, public sector, government agencies, and health care experts. This convening provided our CMO with the opportunity to advocate for the Food Is Medicine program, including the integration of Indigenous food for the American Indian and Alaska Native communities we serve. Dr. Christensen spoke of the importance of foundational equity in developing the program so those with the most significant health disparities receive this care.

IHS Seeks Candidates for Director, Office of Tribal Self-Governance – Deadline October 31

This position serves as the Director, Office of Tribal Self-Governance (OTSG) for IHS. The OTSG is responsible for implementing Tribal Self-Governance legislation and authorities in the IHS under Title V of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, Public Law 93-638, as amended. For more information about this opportunity, visit USAJOBS.gov.

2025 Indian Health Geriatric Nurse Fellowship Application Announcement

The IHS Alzheimer’s and Dementia Program is now accepting applications for the 2025 Indian Health Geriatric Nurse Fellowship. Be one of 20 RNs, APRNs, and LPNs from IHS, tribal, and urban Indian health care settings to receive up to $6,500 in financial support for fellowship activities. Apply today.

• Application Deadline: November 8
• Start Date: January 2025
• Program Includes: Core and specialty geriatric care training, mentored activities, local leadership involvement, options for certification, advanced training, networking, and more.

Callout for Green Infrastructure Project Proposals for Fiscal Year 25

The IHS receives annual appropriations of Green Infrastructure Funds to address sustainability in existing health care facilities. The appropriation directs the IHS Office of Environmental Health and Engineering to incorporate planning, design, and operations of buildings to reduce costs, minimize environmental impacts, use renewable energy, and incorporate green infrastructure and the most current energy efficiency codes and standards to the maximum extent practicable.

The Division of Facilities Planning and Construction is requesting that all interested IHS Areas submit project-specific proposals. All proposals must be submitted through the appropriate IHS Area Office. This includes proposals from service units and tribal entities. For tribally owned or operated facilities, tribes are encouraged to consult in advance with their respective Area Office to assure consistency with other submissions. 

All projects will be assessed, ranked, and awarded until funds are exhausted. Any funds not awarded will be added to the next year’s allocation. Final proposals are due to IHS DFPC by January 23, 2025.

FY 2025 Call for Proposal Links:

• FY 25 Call for Proposals for Green Projects
• Savings and Return Years Calculation
• IHS Existing Building Assessment Tool

For additional information, contact Jim White, manager of the Green Infrastructure Funds Program.

Community Health Representative Mini-Cog Pilot Program Application Announcement—Due November 18

The fiscal year 2025 Community Health Representative Dementia Pilot Program is open for applications. Help bring early dementia screening to American Indian and Alaska Native communities. Up to ten CHR programs will receive funding and training to use the Mini-Cog screening tool. This tool helps identify the need for further dementia care, often before it is recognized elsewhere. Participating CHRs will also be equipped to provide education and connect patients to resources. With dementia impacting the Native population at higher rates, this effort is key to improving health outcomes. Ready to be a leader in dementia care? Applications due November 18. Apply here.

Public Health Advisory Issued for Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Cases of Pertussis, also known as Whooping Cough, are on the rise. This infection is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacterium and spreads through respiratory droplets, saliva, and mucus. It can cause serious illness in people of all ages but is particularly dangerous for babies. Symptoms may include cold-like signs, such as fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and a stuffy or runny nose. A telltale “whoop” sound may occur when gasping for air after coughing. Some may also have trouble breathing, and many babies with Pertussis don’t cough at all but may suffer from apnea, vomiting, or exhaustion after coughing. 

To prevent Pertussis, it’s recommended that children under seven years old get the DTaP vaccine and Tdap for older children and adults. Washing hands frequently, using sanitizer, and keeping up with vaccines like the flu, COVID-19, and RSV can also help. If symptoms appear, seek medical help early, as healthcare providers can prescribe antibiotics to suit the patient’s needs. For more information, visit the CDC website and use these helpful graphics to raise awareness for Whooping Cough for Children and Adults.

Executive Leadership Convenes in Rapid City to Discuss Agency Goals and Priorities

Earlier in October, Ms. Tso convened senior leadership from across the Indian Health Service in Rapid City, South Dakota, to continue our collaborative work to address the most pressing issues facing the agency. Executive leadership from national headquarters, area directors, and other agency leaders discussed progress toward the IHS 2024 Work Plan priorities, continued refining our strategic plan, joined in robust decision making on matters affecting IHS, and participated in leadership training. This convening continues my commitment to bringing the agency’s top leaders together to strategically address challenges facing the IHS, as well as championing the progress made toward our strategic goals.

IHS Welcomes New Pharmacy Residents, Opens Application Cycle for Next Year

In August, the National IHS Pharmacy Residency Program welcomed 28 pharmacy residents. Over the past 24 years, the IHS Pharmacy Residency Program has recruited nearly 500 pharmacists to IHS, with an 80 percent retention rate. As a post-graduate training program, IHS pharmacy residencies, which started in 1966 in Gallup, New Mexico, offer expanded clinical and leadership training for pharmacists at federal and tribal health care facilities across the agency. October kicks off the application cycle for the 2025 – 2026 residency year. IHS is recruiting for 37 residency positions across 30 federal and tribal programs. For more information about the IHS Pharmacy Residency Programs, contact the IHS National Pharmacy Residency Coordinator Capt. Kendall Van Tyle.

IHS Pharmacy Residents in 2023

Public Health Nursing Case Management: Reducing Sexually Transmitted Infections Cooperative Agreement

During the IHS nurse leadership summit held September 29 – October 3, tribal and urban public health nurses from five organizations across the country displayed poster and banners that showed their case management processes and interventions to mitigate the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections within their communities. PHNs from the Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health Board, Central Oklahoma American Indian Health Council, Inc., Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation, United American Indian Involvement, Inc., and the Sokaogon Chippewa Community displayed their work. The organizations are recipients of a cooperative agreement from the IHS that provides funding, technical assistance, and additional support for their programs.

DHITMO Conducts Initial Pilot Site Visit with Lawton Service Unit

The Division of Health Information Technology Modernization and Operations team visited the Lawton Service Unit, which includes the Lawton Indian Hospital, Anadarko Indian Health Center, and Carnegie Indian Health Center. It was an introductory meeting with site leadership and staff and laid the foundation for partnering with site leaders, clinicians, and staff—ensuring open communication throughout the PATH EHR implementation. The DHITMO team and pilot site leadership engaged in robust conversation about current facility state, recommendations for building PATH EHR, and discussing next steps. Looking ahead, DHITMO is committed to partnering with the Lawton Service Unit throughout this process to ensure PATH EHR becomes a lasting health care IT solution across Indian Country for generations to come.

Kiowa Tribe elder Dorothy Whitehorse DeLaune provided a warm welcome to the DHITMO and Lawton Service Unit teams

American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Native American Child Health and the American Psychological Association Visit Billings Area

On October 3 – 6, the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Native American Child Health, in partnership with the American Psychological Association, completed consultation site visits in the Billings Area. Teams visited the Blackfeet Community Hospital and Crow/Northern Cheyenne Hospital in Montana and Warm Valley Health Care in Wyoming to learn about best practices and serve as a resource for staff and patients. Thank you to the sites and Billings Area leadership for their hospitality and support.

(Photo 1) Visit to the Blackfeet Community Hospital
(Photo 2) Visit to the Crow/Northern Cheyenne Hospital
(Photo 3) Visit to Warm Valley Health Care

IHS Participates in White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose

On October 8, the Biden-Harris Administration hosted a White House Challenge to Save Lives from Overdose event. Representatives from across the nation participated in a discussion highlighting their commitment to the challenge through the implementation of programs that save lives. Cmdr. Samantha Gustafson, a pharmacist at the Red Lake Hospital and harm reduction lead for the IHS Heroin Opioid and Pain Efforts (HOPE) Committee, was invited to share a decade of action taken by the Red Lake Nation to expand access to naloxone. She highlighted the collaborative efforts of their tribal comprehensive health program, public safety, hospital staff, and community advocates.

Federal Energy Management Program Honors Federal Energy Champions

On October 17 in Washington, D.C., the Federal Energy Management Program selected honorees as federal champions for their work implementing exceptional, resilient, efficient, and secure energy and water management practices and projects that help their agencies to achieve their mission.

Innovator | Team of Two | Richard Dandasan and Jonathan McNamara 

Richard Dandasan and Jonathan McNamara of the Portland Area were honored for their work in implementing the first-in-the-nation agreement with local tribal utility Yakama Power to supply renewable solar energy to its health care facilities. The duo worked closely with Yakama Power management and the Department of Energy to finalize the contract in December 2023. The agreement marks the first time a federal agency has contracted to purchase renewable solar energy directly from a tribal utility. The agreement's scope covers roughly 30 percent of the Yakama Power solar farm (72.2 kilowatts). It is estimated to generate 1,810 megawatts of clean energy for IHS over the 20-year agreement, which equals nearly seven percent of the IHS Yakama Service Unit's annual energy consumption. The agreement took persistence, outside-the-box thinking, interagency cooperation, and local and leadership support.

IHS Recognizes National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

As we recognize National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it's a good reminder that early detection truly saves lives. Regular screenings, like mammograms and self-exams, can catch breast cancer early when treatment is most effective. Schedule a screening for yourself and remind those around you to do the same.

National Women’s Blood Pressure Awareness Week

Last week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health hosted National Women’s Blood Pressure Awareness Week. The 2024 theme “Empower Every Era: Blood Pressure Control Across the Lifespan” highlights the need for women to monitor and control their blood pressure through all stages of life, from young adulthood through and beyond menopause. The Office on Women’s Health encourages women to check their blood pressure, understand their numbers, and take steps to keep their hearts healthy at every age. IHS recognizes this week as a unique opportunity to highlight best practices in blood pressure control and bring awareness to the contributing factors that impact blood pressure and heart health in American Indian and Alaska Native communities we serve. 

Raising Awareness About World Menopause Day

World Menopause Day is recognized on October 18 each year to raise awareness of a condition affecting about half of the world’s population. Despite the vast number of people this natural life transition impacts, it is often not discussed openly or researched as in-depth as other health conditions. Perimenopause is a term used to describe the time period of the natural decline of female reproductive hormones leading up to menopause, and menopause refers to one year after the last menstrual cycle. Symptoms of perimenopause may include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, menstrual cycle changes and sleep disturbances. Managing all these symptoms can also lead to an increase in anxiety, depression, and fatigue.

Most treatments for menopause focus on symptom relief. After menopause, there is also an increased risk of developing conditions such as heart disease and osteoporosis, highlighting the need for preventative health care. World Menopause Day is designed to encourage additional conversation and call attention to the need for continued research in this area, so I encourage you to talk with your family, friends, and patients on this important topic today!

IHS Celebrates Emergency Nurses Week

Emergency Nurses Week was October 6 – 12. This year, October 9 was dedicated as Emergency Nurses Day. IHS and tribal emergency nurses are best known for their unwavering strength, commitment, and dedication to providing safe, high-quality care in the American Indian and Alaska Native communities they serve. Their extensive knowledge, adaptability, and brave spirit equip them to handle traumatic events, minor injuries, and even the unexpected delivery of babies in rural settings. Let us celebrate and appreciate the incredible emergency nurses who work tirelessly to keep us healthy and safe. Join us in recognizing the amazing emergency nurses who dedicate their lives to caring for others. You can find the Emergency Nurses Association's suggested ideas of how to show gratitude to your favorite emergency nurses here.

IHS Recognizes National Midwifery Week

On October 6 – 12, the IHS also celebrated National Midwifery Week. The Division of Nursing Services recognizes certified nurse midwives for the essential work they do to increase access to safe, high quality women’s health and maternity care to American Indian and Alaska Native communities throughout the Indian Health Service health system. Please take a moment to thank a CNM for their contributions.

Celebrating World Mental Health Day – October 10

The IHS joined others around the globe to celebrate World Mental Health Day on October 10. Mental health is important to every person's overall health and well-being. While physical health relates to our whole body's condition, mental health is about how our mind deals with feelings, such as stress, happiness, or sadness, and the actions and choices we make. In recognition of World Mental Health Day, please make time for your own mental health and learn about specific conditions that negatively affect how a person feels, thinks, or behaves. Click here for more information and resources.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

The month of October is dedicated to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This is a time to honor the contributions of persons with disabilities in our country and to recommit to eliminating barriers in employment. The theme for NDEAM 2024 is “Access to Good Jobs for All.” It underscores the importance of removing barriers to employment for persons with disabilities and ensuring employees are provided equal opportunities to succeed in the workforce. The IHS is committed to enforcing anti-discrimination laws and recognizes that disability employment awareness is crucial to building an inclusive and accessible workplace. The IHS supports Executive Order 14035, “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) in the Federal Workforce,” and remains committed to fostering an environment where all employees are valued for their contributions. We honor and thank our colleagues with disabilities for their hard work and dedication in supporting the IHS mission.

This month, the DMEEO will host a series of disability-related workshops to educate the workforce on various topics pertaining to accommodations that assist in performing essential duties, disability etiquette, disability discrimination, Pregnant Worker Fairness Act, and much more. Read A Proclamation on National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2024 | The White House.

IHS Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month — Latinx & Latine: A Gender Inclusive Approach

During National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, the IHS paid tribute to the profound and positive influence of the Hispanic/Latino community’s contributions in shaping American history, past and present. Hispanics/Latinos have strong commitment to family, faith, hard work, and service and have enhanced and shaped our national character with centuries-old traditions that reflect the multi-ethnic and multicultural customs of their community. In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, the IHS invited Patricia Kramer to speak at a special event on October 17. Kramer is the principal strategist for the Hispanic/Latinx Employment Portfolio, Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the National Institutes of Health.

October is Health Literacy Month

As we observe Health Literacy Month, it's important to reflect on how our words and actions impact the care we provide. Health literacy is not just about ensuring patients understand medical information; it’s about building respectful, compassionate relationships, especially for individuals living with conditions like substance use disorder. This means recognizing that every person we treat comes first, and the language we use matters—whether in work or personal conversations. Our words shape our environment and serve as a timely reminder that respectful, clear communication helps build trust and makes it easier for people to access the care they need. From hallway conversations to emails, phone calls, and patient interactions, choosing non-stigmatizing, compassionate language can make a profound difference.

IHS will work with website content managers in the coming weeks to review and update content, reflecting our commitment to destigmatizing language. I encourage everyone to take a moment to review this VA style guide and consider how we can use language that promotes understanding, dignity, and compassion.

Recognizing Health Literacy Champions During the National Health Literacy Month

Congratulations to the 2024 IHS Annual Health Literacy Award recipients. These teams and individuals were recognized for their commitment and contribution to advancing health literacy. Winners were recognized in two categories for the Health Literacy Team Champion Award; and three members and one individual for the Health Literacy Individual Award. Please follow this link to read how awardees are supporting health literacy. Each winner will receive eight hours of administrative leave and a certificate. Congratulations to the 2024 award winners!

(Photo 1) Individual Category Champion: Andrew Graham, public health educator, Pawnee Service Unit
(Photo 2, Left to Right) Team Category Champions: Lula Curley, DA; Tamana Begay, DDS; and Valina Dee, DA, Gallup Indian Medical Center

IHS Attends National Conference to Promote STEM Job Opportunities with Agency

The IHS Sanitation Facilities Construction from headquarters and area offices participated as a team in the American Indian Science and Engineering Society’s National Conference in San Antonio, Texas. The AISES conference promotes the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics among Native American students and professionals. AISES is dedicated to increasing Indigenous representation in these fields. The event was attended by more than 3,800 individuals, with over 1,000 being Indigenous STEM college students. 

As an event sponsor, the IHS SFC team presented on engineering career opportunities in sanitation and health care facilities within the IHS and Native communities. The team also leveraged the career fair as an opportunity to increase awareness of engineering professions and opportunities, such as the IHS Scholarship and Loan Repayment Programs to students and professionals. Our presence at the event helps in building awareness about the importance and role of engineering in public health, offering insight into how this STEM field directly impacts the well-being of Native communities.

National Association of Medical Staff Services Conference

On September 29 – October 2, IHS and tribal medical staff professionals attended the National Association of Medical Staff Services Conference in Denver, Colorado. Conference attendees gained new knowledge and an enhanced passion for their role and responsibility as patient safety gatekeepers. Topics included expedited provider credentialing, peer review development and processes, provider health & wellness infrastructure development, accreditation and industry updates, NPDB reports, and physician clinical competency assessment. IHS and tribal MSPs have the critical daily mission of verifying that every practitioner is thoroughly vetted to deliver safe, high-quality patient care.

Recruiting at the American Academy of Family Physicians

On September 25 – 27, IHS staff members of the Office of Human Resources, Division of Health Professions Support, Oklahoma City Area, Portland Area, and Navajo Area attended the 2024 American Academy of Family Physicians – Family Medicine Experience Annual Conference held in Phoenix, Arizona. The event attracted family medicine physicians, residents, students, and retirees from across the United States. Many of the interested candidates were already familiar with the IHS through residencies or clinical rotations at various IHS locations. 

(Left to right), Keith Bohanan, HQ Recruitment and Outreach Program coordinator; Ashley Tuomi, director, Office of Clinical Support (Portland Area); and Alora Wood, health professions recruiter (Oklahoma City Area)

(Left to right), Terrah Johnson, Health Professions recruitment manager (Navajo Area); Dr. Gary Vaughn, physician (Navajo Area); Margaret Begay, health system recruitment specialist (Navajo Area); and Heidi Arnholm, health recruitment specialist (Navajo Area)

American College of Emergency Physicians Scientific Assembly

On September 29 - October 1, IHS staff members of the headquarters Division of Health Professions Support, along with clinical and staff members of the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility, Gallup Indian Medical Center, and Great Plains Area recruited at the American College of Emergency Physicians Scientific Assembly held in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event attracted a large presence of emergency medicine physicians, residents, and medical students from across the U.S. The emergency medicine physicians expressed a strong interest in employment with the IHS, while the residents and medical students inquired and learned about clinical rotations with the agency. Many were eager to acquire knowledge about and explore the IHS Loan Repayment Program.

Staff members of the HQ Division of Health Professions Support, Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility, Gallup Indian Medical Center, and Great Plains Area

2024 American Academy of Pediatrics Annual Conference

On September 28 – 30, staff members of the headquarters Office of Human Resources, Division of Health Professions Support, and the Albuquerque Area recruiter attended the American Academy of Pediatrics Annual Conference held in Orlando, Florida. The event generated a presence of pediatricians, pediatric nurses, pediatric professors, and retirees across the United States. A various number of potential candidates were familiar with the IHS and/or developed networking connections through residency in a few areas of recruitment. Many individuals expressed a serious interest in employment with the IHS, loan repayment program options, clinical rotations, and were seeking opportunities to provide direct patient care to American Indians and Alaska Natives.

(Left to right), Jeremy Sheehan, HQ administrative support assistant; Meredith Hunt, HQ recruitment and outreach program coordinator; and Michelle Aguilar-Bowser, health professions recruiter (Albuquerque Area)

Telebehavioral Health Center of Excellence Webinar Series

The Telebehavioral Health Center of Excellence Tele-Education Program is hosting the following trainings for health care providers:

• TBHCE Webinar Series: “Maintaining a Culture of Wellness when Providing Behavioral Health Care” on October 29 at 12:00 p.m. ET ?Register here
• Behavioral Health Integration Webinar Series: “Planning for PCP Workflows in Integrated Care Settings” on November 7 at 12:00 p.m. ET ?Register here
• Behavioral Health Integration Webinar Series: “Suicide Prevention/Treatment in Integrated Care Settings” on December 5 at 12:00 p.m. ET ?Register here
• Behavioral Health Integration Webinar Series: “Developing Patients’ Trust in Managing Opioid Use Disorder in Integrated Care Settings” on January 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. ET ?Register here

IHS Division of Diabetes Treatment and Prevention: Advancements in Diabetes Webinar Series

The IHS Division of Diabetes Treatment and Prevention: Advancements in Diabetes Webinar Series is hosting the following webinar for health care providers:

• “Balancing Tradition and Health: Diabetes Management with Southwest Tribal Foods” on October 23 at 3:00 p.m. ET ?Click here to attend. 

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• Indian Health Service is Awakening the Spirit to Provide Domestic Violence Awareness, Prevention, and Healing Efforts in Indian Country
• Dental Hygiene: Beyond the Operatory Walls

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