Benjamin Smith, Director, Indian Health Service | Official Website
The Indian Health Service (IHS) has announced the selection of seven new projects for health care facilities through its Joint Venture Construction Program. The program, which has been in place for over 30 years, aims to expand access to health services for American Indian and Alaska Native communities by partnering with tribes across the country.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stated, "Quality health care for every American is a moral duty and the cornerstone of a stronger nation. For more than 30 years, the Joint Venture Construction Program has shown what true partnership can achieve—building health, hope, and opportunity across Indian Country as we continue the mission to Make America Healthy Again."
Through this initiative, tribes or tribal organizations use their own funds to construct, acquire, or renovate health care facilities and then lease them to IHS at no cost for 20 years. In exchange, IHS seeks congressional funding to staff and operate these sites. Since its start in 1991, more than 25 tribes have participated in opening or expanding over 30 facilities that provide increased access to quality care.
Acting IHS Director Benjamin Smith said, "These projects reflect the strength of our partnerships with tribal nations and the shared commitment to improving health outcomes across Indian Country. Together, we are building not just facilities, but healthier futures for generations of American Indian and Alaska Native people."
The selected projects include outpatient facilities in Maricopa (Arizona), Utqiagvik (Alaska), Hugo (Oklahoma), Asher (Oklahoma), Pauma Valley (California), Lower Brule (South Dakota), and Okmulgee (Oklahoma). The selection process involved an objective review team made up of representatives from tribes, tribal organizations, IHS, and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Next steps require each selected tribe or organization to prepare planning documents before entering into joint venture agreements with IHS outlining specific responsibilities.
IHS is part of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and delivers comprehensive health services to about 2.8 million American Indians and Alaska Natives from 574 federally recognized tribes in 37 states.
