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The Indian Health Service and American Indian/Alaska Native Health Outcomes
Gina Kruse1,2, Victor A Lopez-Carmen2, Anpotowin Jensen3
1Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
Annual Review of Public Health
|January 26, 2022
Summary
The Indian Health Service (IHS) aims to reduce health disparities for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations. Persistent challenges like funding and culturally sensitive care require ongoing attention for AI/AN health equity.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
- Health Disparities
Background:
- The Indian Health Service (IHS) was established to address health inequities for American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations.
- Despite progress, significant health disparities persist for AI/AN individuals compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical trajectory of the IHS from its origins to its current structure.
- To identify and analyze persistent health and healthcare disparities affecting AI/AN people.
- To discuss contemporary challenges impacting AI/AN healthcare delivery and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of the Indian Health Service (IHS).
- Analysis of persistent health disparities in American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations.
- Discussion of current challenges in AI/AN healthcare.
Main Results:
- The IHS has worked to reduce health disparities but challenges remain.
- Persistent disparities are linked to historical factors and current systemic issues.
- Six key challenges identified: funding, workforce, tribal control transition, program evolution, cultural sensitivity, and health technology.
Conclusions:
- Addressing deep-rooted historical and present-day challenges is crucial for achieving health equity for AI/AN communities.
- Strategies must focus on adequate funding, workforce development, culturally competent care, and effective integration of health technology.
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