Welcome - What Is This Site About?
Welcome to the IHS Director’s web site on Health Reform. In the
context of ongoing efforts to enact national health reform, one of my priorities
is to bring reform to the Indian Health Service. It is clear that some
of the changes to our national health system that are under consideration in
Congress could affect components of the Indian health system in a variety of
ways. It is also clear that, in order for IHS to gain the support it needs, we
must demonstrate willingness to change and improve how we provide health care
and do business internally. I am looking forward to consulting with tribes
and gathering input from our staff and patients on both national health reform
and internal IHS Reform. I am confident we can find creative and innovative
ways to further our mission by improving how we do business and provide health
care.
Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Hearing Testimony [PDF - 65KB]
Spotlight On:
National Health Reforms
Congress is considering several bills that could reshape health insurance options available to all Americans. Shortly after being confirmed as Director, I invited you to send thoughts on national health reforms. We have reviewed the input and are working with HHS to develop our department’s position on national health reform with respect to Indian country. We will be ready comment on legislation underscoring how important it is that national health reform positively impacts the Indian health system and our patients.
Read more about national health reform input we have received
Internal IHS Reform
I am beginning steps to bring reforms to the IHS. Among the first steps is to look at what our system does well and do more of it. Also, we must honestly look at what is not working well and take steps to find solutions. On August 3, I invited input on your top three priorities for bringing reforms to the IHS. This website is one way we will communicate about our ongoing efforts. I invite you to revisit this site regularly to follow new developments.
