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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
National Supply Service Center

Frequently Asked Questions

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Welcome to the NSSC FAQ page. Here you will find quick, clear answers to the most common questions about placing orders, accessing LINK, becoming an NSSC customer, and understanding our logistics and emergency response services. Our goal is to make your experience simple, reliable, and transparent, so you can focus on supporting the health of your communities.

NSSC Information

What is the National Supply Service Center (NSSC)?

The NSSC is the supply-chain and logistics program of the Indian Health Service (IHS), responsible for procuring, storing, and distributing medical and pharmaceutical supplies to IHS, tribal, and urban Indian (I/T/U) health care facilities.

How is the National Supply Service Center (NSSC) funded?

The NSSC is a full-cost recovery program funded through:

  • Warehouse fee
  • Pharmaceutical Prime Vendor (PPV) fee
  • Medical/Surgical Prime Vendor (MSPV) fee
  • Influenza vaccine handling fee

Where is the National Supply Service Center (NSSC) located?

The NSSC Program office and main distribution center are located in Oklahoma City, OK with additional staff and warehouse operations in Gallup, NM.

Does the NSSC support emergency response?

Yes. The NSSC manages the Medical Countermeasure (MCM) stockpile and coordinates emergency supply distribution with partners including CDC, ASPR, and the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS).

Ordering and Inventory

How do I place an order and/or access LINK?

All NSSC orders are now submitted through the LINK system. PPV and MSPV orders continue to be placed through their respective vendor ordering systems and are processed through the NSSC. If you are a LINK registered user, access LINK via the NSSC LINK page or by selecting the Visit LINK button below. Sign in using your credentials; a one-time passcode will be emailed to you each time you log in. If you are not a LINK registered user, please email IHSNSSCCustomerService@ihs.gov to request access

How does LINK benefit IHS, tribal and urban Facilities?

LINK allows all NSSC customers to order stocked products quickly, view current and past orders, and streamline workflows.

What products will be available to order in LINK?

All currently stocked distribution center products are available to order; special items may also be ordered by request.

How do I order a product that is not in the LINK inventory?

Email product details to IHSNSSCCustomerService@ihs.gov.

Will I be able to look at my submitted orders in LINK?

Yes. Order History shows past orders, statuses, and tracking information.

What if my facility is not an NSSC Customer?

Request a NSSC Customer Agreement at IHSNSSCCustomerService@ihs.gov.

Will LINK affect McKesson or Medline ordering processes?

No. The McKesson and Medline ordering processes remain unchanged.

Emergency Response

Does the NSSC support emergency response?

Yes, the NSSC manages emergency stockpiles (MCM) and coordinates with federal partners such as CDC, ASPR, and SNS.

Where can I find information regarding recalls and shortages?

If you are a LINK user, all recalls and shortages will be announced via the homepage. For additional information, please check out the resources below: