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

Happy Summer, Stay Safe

There are many summer social activities that take place in American Indian and Alaska Native communities including powwows, rodeos, basketball and softball tournaments, traditional dances, spiritual ceremonies, and more. It is important that we encourage everyone to participate in safe public health practices during the warmer summer months.

Check for helpful summer safety tips on your local IHS Facebook page.

Congratulations to the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility!

In April, the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility in Chinle, Arizona was designated as a Baby-Friendly Hospital. Chinle is now the 9th Indian Health Service hospital to be certified. As a result of striving for this designation, 75 percent of the Chinle's obstetric care unit nursing staff are now certified as lactation counselors. Baby-Friendly hospitals offer new mothers the information, confidence, and skills they need to initiate and continue breastfeeding their babies.

Breastfeeding information and support

Learn more about the IHS Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative

ACA Monthly Special Enrollment Periods

Open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act ended on March 31. However, if you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, you're eligible for monthly special enrollment periods. This means you can still enroll in a health plan or make changes to your current health plan once per month. Please consider enrolling in the Marketplace and sharing this information with those you know who are eligible for enrollment. To enroll today, visit HealthCare.gov .

For more information on how the Affordable Care Act impacts Indian Country, visit the IHS ACA website.