IHS Blog
Taking Action: Working Together to Prevent Overdose
August 31, 2026
by Capt. Cynthia Gunderson, Chair of the IHS National Committee on Heroin, Opioids, and Pain Efforts
Overdose affects individuals, families, and communities, and preventing it remains an important part of the Indian Health Service’s mission. Each person’s path to treatment and recovery is different, and each of us has a role in helping connect people with the care they need.
International ... Continue reading
Bridging the Gaps in Rural Maternal Health Care
July 22, 2026
by Cmdr. Tina Pattara-Lau, MD, FACOG, Maternal Child Health Consultant
These stories of lived experience may be familiar to staff who have provided care to families in the Indian Health Service. Since 2020, 124 rural hospitals have closed their maternity units or plan to close them before the end of this year, representing a 12 percent reduction in rural labor and delivery (L&D) services (Center for Healthcare Quality & Payment Reform, 2026). Over one-third of U.S. counties are now considered maternity care deserts, with no access to L&D, OB/GYNs, midwives, or family practice providers.
... Continue readingProtecting and Honoring Elders in American Indian and Alaska Native Communities
June 29, 2026
by Nicole Stahlmann, MN, RN, SANE-A, AFN-BC, SANE-P, FNE-A/P, Forensic Nurse Consultant, Division of Nursing Services
Elder abuse remains under-recognized and under-reported. Raising awareness and improving education can help communities, caregivers, and health care providers recognize abuse, connect elders to resources, and support the safety and dignity of elders. ... Continue reading
Uniformed Service Staff Members Sweep Society of Military Engineers Awards
June 11, 2026
by Capt. Martin L. Smith, MPH, RS\REHS, IHS Office of Environmental Health & Engineering Director
The Indian Health Service (IHS) Office of Environmental Health & Engineering is proud to highlight the accomplishments of its staff in receiving all three available Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) Uniformed Service Awards for the U.S. Public Health Service for 2025. These prestigious national awards were presented on May 21 in Portland, Oregon at the Society Ball & Awards Gala of the Joint Engineer Training Conference.
... Continue readingNational EMS Week 2026: Improving Outcomes, Together
May 18, 2026
by Ardith Aspaas, BSN, RN, Nurse Consultant, Indian Health Service Emergency Medical Services for Children Program
As we observe National EMS Week 2026, the Indian Health Service recognizes the dedication, skill, and service of EMS professionals across Indian Country. This year's theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” reflects the teamwork and coordination that strengthen emergency care, improve patient ... Continue reading
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