Indian Health Service The Federal Health Program for American Indians and Alaska Natives

December 1st is World AIDS Day

At the end of 2010, there were approximately 3,200 American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people diagnosed with HIV. In 2011, 212 AI/AN people were newly diagnosed with HIV. Native Americans face greater health disparities and risk factors for HIV, such as higher rates of substance abuse and sexually transmitted diseases (STD).

To help HIV advocates, health care providers, and other people in communities throughout Indian Country promote HIV testing and improve understanding of HIV/AIDS, the IHS HIV/AIDS Program has developed a video titled Facing AIDS with Native Communities.

• Watch the Facing AIDS with Native Communities video

Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act, also known as the health care law, was created to expand access to coverage, control health care costs, and improve health care quality and coordination. The ACA also includes permanent reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, which extends the current law and authorizes new programs and services within the Indian Health Service.

• Learn more about the Affordable Care Act

Breastfeeding

Did you know that breastfeeding can significantly reduce the risk of childhood obesity, diabetes, allergies and asthma, and many types of infections such as upper respiratory, gastrointestinal, and necrotizing enterocolitis? The IHS aims to certify all IHS obstetric facilities as Baby-Friendly by the end of 2014. These designations were sought as part of the IHS Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative. This initiative is part of First Lady Michelle Obama’s "Let’s Move! in Indian Country" campaign dedicated to solving childhood obesity and reducing diabetes rates within a generation.

• Breastfeeding Promotion & Support
• IHS Hospitals Designated as Baby-Friendly Facilities