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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Domestic Violence Prevention

Forensic Healthcare Services Program

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In April 2022, the IHS Division of Behavioral Health, Office of Clinical and Preventive Services awarded 4 Tribal, Tribal organization, and Urban Indian organization Forensic Healthcare (FHC) Service Program grants totaling $1 million, over a 5-year period. The 4 FHC grantees will focus on providing access to treatment for AI/AN victims of domestic and sexual violence by supporting the development of and/or expansion of FHC services that are culturally appropriate and trauma-informed.

The Forensic Healthcare (FHC) service program’s intent is to impact FHC services provided by Tribal and Urban Indian organizations which includes promoting treatment, intervention, and prevention efforts for the social, spiritual, and emotional well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) victims of domestic and sexual violence. FHC funds the 4 tribes, tribal organizations, Urban Indian Organizations, to meet the following goals:

  • Strengthen or increase access to quality medical Forensic Healthcare to victims of domestic and sexual violence including children.
  • Foster coalitions and networks to improve coordination and collaboration among partners to ensure adequate services exist either on-site or by referral for victims of domestic and sexual violence, sexual exploitation/human trafficking, and child maltreatment 24 hours per day/7 days per week year-round.
  • Promote education, training, and community resources.
  • Integrate at least one program/intervention that is an evidence-based practice, or known as a promising practice, and may be integrated or coordinated with traditional practices and/or faith-based services to facilitate the social and emotional well-being of victims and their families.