October 3, 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.
Dzilth-Na-O-Dith-Hle Health Center Anniversary Celebration
Last week, IHS Director Roselyn Tso had the honor of participating in the 40th anniversary celebration of the Dzilth-Na-O-Dith-Hle- Health Center in New Mexico, a momentous occasion that allowed us to recognize and honor the contributions of past and present employees. It was also an opportunity to express a deep appreciation to the Navajo Nation Chapter Houses of Huerfano, Nageezi, and Counselor. Their trust and support have been the cornerstone of success for the agency. Their partnerships with federal, tribal, and private entities have been instrumental in the IHS mission to provide quality health care services.
The event was attended by esteemed guests, such as Navajo Nation Vice President Richelle Montoya; Dr. Beverly Cotton, acting deputy director for field operations; Rear Adm. Brian Johnson; IHS acting deputy director for OEHE; Shirley Yazzie-Lewis, the center’s first health system administrator; and Sherylene Yazzie, Navajo Nation director for the Division of Health. This event reflected the rich history and promising future of DZHC. Ms. Tso extends her heartfelt thanks to Lt. Cmdr. Shealyn Lucero and her team for organizing such a memorable event!
Meeting With U.S. Senator Mark Kelly to Discuss Agency Updates and Priorities
On September 26, Ms. Tso met with U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (AZ) to discuss recent IHS accomplishments. She highlighted her late August visit to Arizona and engagements with several tribes, including the Cocopah, Quechan, White Mountain Apache, San Carlos Apache, and Fort McDowell Yavapai Nations. Ms. Tso updated the Senator on key initiatives, including improvements to the IHS Purchased/Referred Care Program and the costs associated with the electronic health record modernization. She also emphasized the critical need for mandatory funding for Contract Support Costs and 105(l) leases and directed his attention to legislative proposals in the President’s Budget Request aimed at enhancing recruitment and retention to address our workforce challenges. Ms. Tso thanks Sen. Kelly for his continued support of Indian Country.
Meeting with VA Secretary Focuses on Partnership to Serve Native Veterans
Ms. Tso also had the opportunity to meet with Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough on September 26 to discuss the shared commitment of the agencies to provide Native veterans with top-quality health care. She shared updates on the IHS Health Information Technology Modernization Program, particularly the new PATH EHR system — “Patients At The Heart.” The Lawton Service Unit in Oklahoma, which includes three health care facilities, was recently selected as the pilot site for this innovative electronic health record system. By implementing PATH EHR in a real-world setting, the IHS aims to identify and resolve challenges before expanding it across Indian Country, improving patient care and health care operations. Ms. Tso also discussed current partnerships with 21 IHS hospitals that established agreements to integrate VA services directly into IHS facilities. This "one-stop shop" approach ensures Native veterans can access both VA and IHS services under one roof, making it easier for them to receive the care they deserve. Together, we are reducing barriers and enhancing health care for Native veterans across the country.
IHS Director Tso and VA Secretary McDonough with leaders from both agencies
Portland Area Director Marcus Martinez Promoted to Rear Admiral
On September 23, Ms. Tso had the honor to join IHS Portland Area Director Marcus Martinez in celebration of his promotion to Rear Admiral Lower Half. The director said this is a tremendous achievement, and it was wonderful to see family, friends, and colleagues travel to Spokane, Washington, to celebrate his significant milestone. The promotion to Flag Grade is a rare and coveted distinction that’s earned by less than one percent of active duty Commissioned Corps officers through a highly competitive process.
Throughout his career, Rear Adm. Martinez has exemplified the core values of the U.S. Public Health Service in the areas of leadership, integrity, service, and excellence. His unwavering commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our nation inspires us all. Thank you and congratulations to Rear Adm. Martinez!
Director Tso Visits Red Lake Nation and Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe
In September, Ms. Tso had the privilege of meeting with tribal leaders from the Red Lake Nation and Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in Minnesota, where they discussed the challenges rural tribes face in accessing health care. During her visit, Ms. Tso toured both the Red Lake Hospital and Cass Lake Hospital to witness firsthand the tremendous efforts these communities are making to reduce health disparities. Cass Lake Hospital is currently undergoing a significant expansion and renovation, which includes upgrades to the clinic, lab, pharmacy, urgent care, and medical records departments.
She also had the chance to visit the Leech Lake Food Distribution Program, which provides nutritious food packages to eligible households—ensuring access to healthy food, a critical component of overall health. Ms. Tso values the opportunity to meet with tribal leadership across Indian Country and is continually inspired by the dedication and progress of the teams within the Indian health system.
Director Tso Visits Lummi Nation in Washington
Last month, Ms. Tso had the pleasure of visiting the Lummi Nation Boys & Girls Club during her time in Fife, Washington, for the Joint Meeting of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Tribal Technical Advisory Committee and the IHS National Tribal Advisory Committee on Behavioral Health. She also had the opportunity to speak with the Lummi Tribal Business Council to highlight several key IHS initiatives aimed at supporting tribes, tribal organizations, urban Indian organizations, and federal IHS facilities in addressing behavioral health and substance abuse issues across Indian Country. Ms. Tso thanks them for their time and looks forward to more discussions, as we work to improve the health and well-being of the tribal communities that we serve.
IHS Announces Award of $1.19 Million to Help with Dementia Care and Services
On September 19, the IHS announced the award of an additional $1.19 million through six cooperative agreements to enhance tribal and urban Indian health system local capacity to provide dementia care and services. The total commitment for the new three-year awards is nearly $3.6 million. The 2024 awardees include two brand-new recipients and four awardees who received previous two-year funding:
- Indian Health Board (IHB) of Minneapolis Inc. (Minnesota) – $200,000
- Indian Health Council Inc. (California) – $200,000
- Nez Perce Tribe (Idaho) – $199,383
- Northern Valley Indian Health Inc. (California) – $200,000
- Santo Domingo Pueblo (New Mexico) – $199,716
- Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation (Arizona) – $200,000
This new round of funding builds on early work and lessons learned from awards offered in 2022 and 2023, with an eye for creating sustainable and replicable models of dementia care. It also advances the HHS’ work to fulfill the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease by enhancing care quality and efficiency, expanding support for people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and their families, and enhancing public awareness and engagement. Read the full press release to learn more.
Tribal Consultation Will Address Methodology for Program Income Related to CSC — October 9
The IHS will host a virtual tribal consultation session on October 9 to address the subject of contract support costs in the wake of the recent Supreme Court decision. This is the final of five sessions that the IHS hosted on this topic. In September, IHS Director Roselyn Tso notified tribal leaders that input and recommendations are needed on funding methodologies for the payment of eligible contract support costs incurred by tribes and tribal organizations related to third-party reimbursements. Feedback is critical, as modifications can have major budgetary implications for tribes that receive direct services, as well as compacting and contracting tribes. All comments are due by October 11. Click here for more information about upcoming sessions.
IHS 2024 Updated PRC Medical Priorities Plan Training Session
IHS Acting Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Matthew Clark will conduct a a virtual training session to provide a comprehensive overview of the IHS 2024 Updated PRC Medical Priorities Plan. The session is intended for area and service unit administrators, clinical staff, PRC staff, and others involved in the PRC referral process. Register at the link below to receive the calendar invite and meeting link.
- October 7 at 1:00 p.m. ET | Register here
CMO Dr. Loretta Christensen Opens Navajo Area Opioid Conference
Last week, IHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Loretta Christensen delivered welcoming remarks at the 2nd annual Navajo Nation Opioid Awareness Summit in Window Rock, Arizona. The two-day event focused on crucial topics such as drug trafficking, opioid prevention, opioid settlement funds, data trends, Arizona and New Mexico state resources, and Navajo traditional medicine. It also included informative leadership panel discussions. The summit welcomed resource booths from non-profit organizations, recovery centers and healthcare facilities. It was hosted by the Navajo Area Office of Public Health in partnership with the Navajo Nation Division of Behavioral and Mental Health Services – Center of Harmony and Recovery (Tribal Opioid Response Program).
Dr. Christensen Participates in National Produce Prescription Collaborative Panel
On September 18, IHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Loretta Christensen joined other health care leaders in a PRx Administration National Strategy discussion during the National Produce Prescription Collaborative National Summit and Day of Action 2024. Dr. Christensen shared how the IHS is approaching the Produce Rx and Food is Medicine roadmap outlined in the Biden-Harris Administration’s 20222 National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition and Health. Specifically, Dr. Christensen highlighted the progress and success of the agency’s Produce Prescription Pilot Program.
Division of Behavioral Health Presents Updates to SAMHSA Advisory Committees
On September 18, IHS Division of Behavioral Health Director Dr. Glorinda Segay provided updates to the SAMHSA Tribal Technical Advisory Committee and the IHS National Tribal Advisory Committee on Behavioral Health. The focus of the discussion was action planning to enhance strategies impacting suicide and overdose protection in Indian Country. This is particularly relevant in September, which is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month.
Dr. Segay’s updates focused on the ways IHS is working to collaborate with tribes to increase resources and funding directly to tribes under ISDEAA funding mechanisms to support the important work of tribes. Additionally, Suicide Prevention Month activities including new screening tools, training, and documentation was highlighted. Harm reduction strategies including the Naloxone Safety Net program and overdose symptom recognition and response training were also emphasized.
Leadership Strategies that Improve Workforce Safety and Well-Being Webinar — October 8
Register now for the National Action Alliance’s October 8 webinar – “Leadership Strategies That Improve Workforce Safety and Well-Being.” Health care leaders today face increasing demands to safeguard their teams and the patients they serve. The webinar will provide practical tools and strategies to address these challenges and offer a systems-based approach to integrating staff well-being into leadership practices. The expert panel will highlight research-based evidence on effective leadership strategies and share how specific approaches are being applied in real-world contexts to create safer, healthier work environments. Don’t forget to also visit the National Action Alliance website to find more information about previous and future webinars, access tools and resources for advancing patient and workforce safety, and sign up for the National Action Alliance newsletter.
National Pharmacy Council Monthly Spotlight for September – Woodrow Wilson Keeble Memorial Health Care Center Pharmacy Team
The pharmacy team at the Woodrow Wilson Keeble Memorial Health Care Center in Sisseton, South Dakota, continues to answer the call. They led the way in creating the first accredited pharmacy post graduate year-one ambulatory care resident program in 2019 and have since had three past residents continue their careers with IHS. Their service unit was recently recognized as an E3 Vaccine Strategy Champion and the pharmacy department increased vaccination rates by 17 percent during the last fiscal year. Their impressive team of clinical pharmacists have integrated themselves within the outpatient department, where they work side by side with providers to optimize patient care. They work each day to meet the IHS mission through program development and quality care. Congratulations Woodrow Wilson Keeble Memorial Health Care Center Pharmacy Team!
Nurse of the Quarter
The IHS Division of Nursing Services recognizes two nurses each quarter to highlight the incredible nursing staff across Indian Country who are committed to providing quality health care to our patients. The Nurse of the Quarter for Exemplary Leadership for the 3rd quarter of 2024 is Mary Bailey, BSN, RN, CIC, infection preventionist at the Claremore Service Unit in Oklahoma. Mary has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to improving care and safety. Her work has significantly improved patient outcomes, reduced hospital-acquired infections, and ensured high-level disinfection practices meet and exceed industry standards. Read more about her and previous recipients here.
Catawba Service Unit Recognized as E3 Champion
The IHS National E3 Vaccine Strategy Operations Team congratulates the Catawba Service Unit for their qualification as the fifth E3 Champion for IHS! The IHS National E3 Vaccine Strategy was first announced in November 2022, with the E3 Champions Challenge and pilot program launching shortly after. As part of the E3 strategy, IHS encourages that every patient at every encounter be offered every recommended vaccine, when appropriate. As we seek to promote routine immunization, increase vaccine coverage rates, and mitigate the risks of vaccine preventable illness in tribal communities, the innovation and successful best practices developed at the local level by vaccine exemplars such as the Catawba Service Unit team are an inspiration. Thank you for your team's commitment to vaccine excellence in Indian Country!
IHS Alzheimer's Program Promotes Training for Early Dementia Detection
September was World Alzheimer’s Month. Health care providers are encouraged to read the IHS blog about how the three-minute Mini-Cog tool can identify early signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. It can be used in medical, dental, and community settings by health care and community health staff and requires no special medical knowledge or training to learn. Early detection empowers better care planning and helps families make informed decisions. Using simple tools like the Mini-Cog can help us make a real difference. You will find links to new demo videos featuring staff from the Indian Health Council.
IHS Celebrates National Voter Registration Day
September 17 was recognized as National Voter Registration Day. On this day, Ms. Tso took a moment to commend the work done by IHS areas to support nonpartisan civic engagement throughout Indian Country. IHS and tribally administered health programs serve approximately 2.8 million American Indians and Alaska Natives, many of whom are not registered to vote. In accordance with Executive Order 14019, which calls on federal agencies like the IHS to consider ways to expand citizens’ opportunities to register to vote, IHS has worked with our area offices to identify service units, tribally run facilities, and urban Indian organizations that are well-suited to be designated as voter registration sites under the National Voter Registration Act of 1993. To date, IHS facilities in the Albuquerque, Navajo, and Phoenix Areas have been designated as voter registration sites under the NVRA.
Ms. Tso said the most important reason she is proud of the work IHS has done in this arena is this: Civic engagement is a proven contributor to the social determinants of public health. Increased voter participation can enhance health outcomes for populations, aligning perfectly with the mission of the IHS. For more information, to register to vote, or to check your registration status, visit vote.gov. You can read more in her recent blog post.
HHS Agencies Present Key Action Items to End Gender-Based Violence
Brought to you in the most recent IHS Updates for Tribes and Tribal and Urban Indian Organizations was information related to the 30th Anniversary of the Violence Against Women Act. To carry this awareness and support efforts, please find a listing of key action items to end gender-based violence across the HHS agencies, which includes IHS’ related programs and initiatives. Click here for more information.
Division of Behavioral Health Hosts Healthcare Provider Wellness Webinar
On September 19, the Division of Behavioral Health partnered with Crisis Text Line to host a webinar on health care provider burnout. This timely event was part of the ongoing efforts during Suicide Prevention Month in September and year-round to bring awareness to the support resources available to our health care providers. Crisis Text Line is available 24/7, is anonymous and accessible for all age groups and demographics, and has the capability to connect Native people to counselors by texting NATIVE to 741741.
We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Shairi Turner, chief health officer at Crisis Text Line, and the entire Crisis Text Line team for their invaluable partnership to raise awareness about the service provided through this platform. Their support has been instrumental in offering essential mental health resources to IHS providers and patients alike. The webinar was recorded and is accessible to staff here. Additionally, resources from Crisis Text Line are available for download here.
National Hispanic Heritage Month
The Indian Health Service takes pride in joining the nation to observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. During this month, we pay tribute to the profound and positive influence of the Hispanic/Latino community’s contributions in shaping American history, past and present. Hispanics/Latinos have a 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 communities.
This year’s theme — “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together” — seeks to recognize the many trailblazers who defied the odds, broke barriers, and paved the way for future generations that will follow their lead into the future. At IHS, we to continue recognize our Latino colleagues for their dedication and support toward helping the IHS deliver the best health care services to the American Indian and Alaska Native people. Join in any local events and festivities to celebrate the rich heritage in the Hispanic/Latino community this month. Read more in the Proclamation on National Hispanic Heritage Month.
IHS Celebrates National Recovery Month
National Recovery Month is recognized every September to promote substance use treatment and mental health services. The goal is to encourage treatment for those affect by substance use so they can achieve a healthy and rewarding life. The IHS celebrated this year’s theme — “Recovery is for everyone. Every person. Every Family. Every Community.” — by highlighting agency-supported programs and services.
The Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest, Inc., located in Gresham, Oregon, is an IHS supported Youth Regional Treatment Center that incorporates traditional healing practices within their program. NARA staff collaborated with their community to transform a vacant parking area into a vibrant healing garden. The Txwnni Garden flourishes, serving as a sanctuary where youth are taught about sacred medicines, decolonized food practices, and educated on First Nations foods. The garden also plays a crucial role in destigmatizing tobacco by highlighting its ceremonial use. With the support of the staff, the youth also constructed a sweat lodge next to the healing garden and participated in a sweat lodge ceremony as part of healing.
NARA Sweat Lodge and Healing Garden
Recruitment and Outreach Opportunity at California State Polytechnic University
On September 18, California Area HR Director Janelle Langland and IHS Diversity Management and Equal Employment Opportunity Director Angela Porter participated in HHS Day, a recruitment and outreach event at the California State Polytechnic University in Pomona, California. Langland and Porter served on a panel of leaders from across the HHS that shared information about their own career paths while aiming to inspire students to consider career opportunities with the agency. The HHS Day event is part of the department’s national-level strategy to establish partnerships with minority serving colleges and universities.
IHS and other department staff members at the HHS Day event
Advanced Practice Provider Executive Leadership Summit
On September 18 – 21, advanced practice nursing representatives from IHS headquarters and the Bemidji, Navajo, and Oklahoma City Areas attended the 17th Annual Advanced Practice Provider Leadership Summit. The Summit is a national forum for health care leaders and clinicians to network and gain support and resources to enhance utilization of APPs in their organizations. Speakers included key leaders from health systems across the country with strong APP leadership infrastructures in place. The information gained will support the IHS teams ongoing work related to APP leadership development, recruitment, retention, and innovative strategies for APP utilization across the agency.
Office of Quality Staff Members Receive National Certification
The IHS Office of Quality Credentialing Program is proud to announce that two staff members have achieved the national certification of Certified Provider Credentialing Specialist — a pinnacle of achievement and acknowledgment for the medical services professional. White Earth Health Center Credentialing Coordinator Veronica McDougall, in the Bemidji Area, and Billings Area Credentialing Coordinator Michelle Shot-Gunn recently achieved national certification as CPCS. This is a momentous achievement – of the 542 people who have sat for the exam over the last decade, only 64 percent passed. McDougall and Shot-Gunn's achievements are not only personal milestones, but also significant contributions to the IHS. Their dedication and hard work have set a high standard for credentialing. As two of the seven individuals to become CPCS certified in the IHS, their success signifies the recognition of knowledge, service, and the advancement of the profession within the agency. Congratulations Michelle and Veronica!
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: “Documenting Behavioral Health Notes in Electronic Health Records” on October 8 at 12:00 p.m. ET | Register here
- “Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Webinar Series: Autism Spectrum Disorder and Psychiatric Conditions: Psychosis and Trauma/Stressor-Related Disorders” on October 11 at 2:00 p.m. ET | Register here
- TBHCE Webinar Series: “Ethics and Confidentiality Concerns when Documenting Behavioral Health Notes” on October 22 at 12:00 p.m. ET | Register here
- 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
Falls Prevention Awareness Week
The IHS recognized Falls Prevention Week in September. Falls can be serious for older adults, but the good news is they can often be prevented. Falls Prevention Awareness Week is the perfect time to learn and act to help older adults stay safe and independent. This year's theme, “From Awareness to Action,” encourages everyone to get involved – which is easy to do using these helpful resources from the National Council on Aging to guide your conversations and planning. Let’s work together to prevent falls and help older adults live without fear. Share the “6 Steps to Prevent a Fall” video and handouts with your patients and family members.
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- IHS Alzheimer’s Program Promotes Training for Early Dementia Detection
- Yes, Civic Engagement Improves Health Outcomes
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