IHS Blog

Honoring Our Caregivers: Recognizing Family Caregivers Month Across Indian Country

November 13, 2025
by Rose Weahkee, Ph.D., Acting Deputy Director for Management Operations, Indian Health Service

Each November, we observe National Family Caregivers Month — a time to honor and uplift the many family members, friends, and community members who care for loved ones across Indian Country. This year’s theme, “Plug-in to Care,” reminds us to connect caregivers with the support they need. Nationally, ... Continue reading

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Honoring Indian Health Service and Tribal Domestic Violence Providers

October 20, 2025
by Nicole Stahlmann, Forensic Nurse Consultant, Division of Nursing Services IHS/HQ

With Survivors, Always, is the October 2025 Domestic Violence Awareness Month theme. The Indian Health Service, tribal, and urban Indian facility staff continuously uplift the needs, voices, and experiences of Native survivors across Indian Country. The IHS is incredibly proud to highlight some of ... Continue reading

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The Role of the Enterprise Collaboration Group

October 14, 2025
by Dr. Howard Hays, Chief Medical Information Officer, Office of Information Technology, Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) Health Information Technology (IT) Modernization Program formed the  Enterprise Collaboration Group (ECG), to ensure the users of PATH EHR drive the configuration of the system. This user-focused body is comprised of subject matter experts from IHS federal ... Continue reading

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Early Detection Saves Lives: Making Breast Cancer Screening a Priority

October 9, 2025
by Dr. Loretta Christensen, MBA, MSJ, FACS, IHS Chief Medical Officer

When it comes to cancer, early detection can make a life-saving difference. Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, but when it’s caught early, treatment is often more effective, and the chances of survival are much higher.

That’s why regular checkups and routine ... Continue reading

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Decade-long collaboration improves public health outcomes in rural Minnesota

October 2, 2025
by Capt. Cynthia Gunderson, Chair of the IHS National Committee on Heroin, Opioids, and Pain Efforts

In 2015, the Red Lake Hospital pharmacy collaborated with tribal leadership and tribal programs to expand access to naloxone and other reduction and prevention initiatives. The hospital team listened, sought understanding, and built a framework grounded in the Anishinaabe Seven Grandfather Teachings ... Continue reading