01/15/2026
We extend our warmest wishes to Rear Adm. Chris Buchanan, an enrolled member of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, on his retirement after 33 years of dedicated service to the Indian Health Service. Throughout his career, Rear Adm. Buchanan has been a steady and trusted leader, committed to strengthening the Indian health care system and supporting the communities we serve.
He began his career with IHS in 1993 as an environmental health officer in the U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps and served in various environmental health positions in the IHS Phoenix, Albuquerque, and Oklahoma City Areas. Since 2021, he has served as the IHS deputy director for field operations, providing critical management oversight and resource allocation for the 12 IHS Areas. From 2016 through 2021, he served as IHS deputy director, which included filling the role of acting IHS director—helping ensure continuity and comprehensive care across the Indian health system.
On behalf of the entire IHS team, we thank Rear Adm. Buchanan for his decades of leadership, service, and dedication. We wish him continued fulfillment, good health, and many well-deserved years of retirement.
