Policy

IHS Health Manual

The Indian Health Manual (IHM) is the reference for IHS employees regarding IHS-specific policy and procedural instructions. The IHM consists of permanent policies, procedure, and operating standards specific and unique to IHS administrative and program operations. The policy is located in Part 3, Professional Services, Chapter 18, Alcohol Substance Abuse.

Purpose

This Chapter establishes general policy, staff responsibilities, operating relationships, standards, and guidelines for the development of alcohol use and substance misuse treatment and prevention services supported or administered by the Indian Health Service (IHS).

Goals

In accordance with the IHS goal of elevating the health status of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people to the highest level, the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Branch (ASAB) will work to lower the incidence and prevalence of alcohol use and substance misuse among AI/AN people to a level at or below that of the general U.S. population.

The ASAB will assist AI/AN groups through school and community-based planning to establish effective programs of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation for persons suffering from or afflicted with problems arising from alcohol use and substance misuse. Included is the development of Youth Regional Treatment Centers in each IHS Area.