Great Plains Area Indian Health Service

11/06/2025

Today is World No To***co Day. While sacred to***co is important for prayer, healing, and ceremony, commercial to***co is harmful to our health. American Indians and Alaska Natives who want help to quit commercial to***co can enroll in SmokefreeNATIVE – a free mobile messaging tool with tips, advice, and encouragement to quit. Text “NATIVE” to 47848 or visit https://smokefree.gov/tools-tips/text-programs/quit-for-good/smokefreenative to get started today!

11/06/2025

National Cancer Survivors Day, observed on the first Sunday in June, is a time to honor and celebrate cancer survivors who have achieved amazing milestones, support those undergoing treatment, recognize those who have provided care, and take a moment to remember those who have passed away.

Cancer affects many individuals and families across the country, and American Indian and Alaska Native people continue to experience higher rates of several types of cancer. Early screening, education, and community outreach are essential tools for improving outcomes and saving lives.

As we reflect on the journey of cancer survivors, let’s continue to raise awareness about symptoms, screening guidelines, family health history, and preventive care.

11/06/2025

Applications are now open for the 2025 Indian Health Geriatric Scholars Program! GeriScholars build geriatrics expertise and improve elder care in their own communities. Successful applicants will complete an intensive geriatrics board review course, lead a mentored improvement project, and connect with a peer support network. Learn more and apply by July 7: https://bit.ly/4krmUgz

11/06/2025

Meeting Status: Scheduled Hearing Date: Thursday, June 5, 2025 - 1:30 PM Location: Capitol Complex, 2008 RHOB, Washington, DC, 20515, USA Witnesses Mr. Benjamin SmithActing Director, Indian Health ServiceWitness BiographyWitness Statement Ms. Jillian CurtisDirector, Office of Finance and Accounting,...

11/06/2025

11/06/2025

Want to stay in the loop of the 2025 NCAI Mid Year Convention & Marketplace but aren’t able to make it to Connecticut this year? Stream the General Assemblies (GAs) starting today through June 11 by registering for the Digital Ticket option!

These live plenary sessions are an opportunity for tribal leaders to hear from subject matter experts and help ensure Indian Country is ready to face any challenges ahead. This year’s GAs will feature vital topics like the Violence against Women Act, education priorities, Indigenous health, and much more.

🔗https://web.cvent.com/event/6f9fdbae-9a8f-467e-a5f4-eee337cdb83c/summary

11/06/2025

11/06/2025

Jim O’Neill was sworn in today as the Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services by Secretary Kennedy. Deputy Secretary O’Neill’s appointment underscores an intense focus on fostering health innovation, modernizing systems, and restoring evidence-based science and medicine to the center of heath care.

“I am deeply honored to return to HHS. All Americans deserve to be healthy, happy, and prosperous, and President Trump and Secretary Kennedy have the right vision and leadership to get us there. I’m eager to help my colleagues find the root causes of chronic disease, support families making healthy choices, and help businesses make health care more affordable and accessible. Together all of us can make America healthy again.” — Deputy Secretary O’Neill

11/06/2025

On Friday, the Society of American Indian Dentists announced the passing of Dr. George Blue Spruce Jr., DDS, MPH—a groundbreaking figure in Native American health care. Of Laguna and Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo heritage, Dr. Blue Spruce made history in 1956 as the first American Indian dentist. He passed...

11/06/2025

21/01/2025

Today, IHS joins the nation in a day of reflection on the life and achievements of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., for the enduring impact he made in setting America on a path toward systematic change by advancing social justice and equality for people of color. Today is also recognized as a National Day of Service, inspiring us all to volunteer and strengthen our communities. By participating in acts of service, we honor his dream of unity, equality, and a brighter future for all.