Join Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy & Communications, and Chandos Culleen, JD, Senior Director of Federal Relations, Public Policy, in this episode as they delve into the crucial topic of stable funding for the Indian Health Service (IHS) and the need for advance appropriations. Learn why stable funding for IHS, including for Urban Indian Organizations, is vital to delivering essential health care and social services to American Indian and Alaska Native people.

The episode draws attention to the pressing issue of the chronically underfunded IHS, with an estimated requirement of over $50 billion to meet the health care needs of Native communities. Advocacy for full funding for the IHS becomes paramount, with the ultimate goal of achieving mandatory appropriations for a reliable and consistent funding stream. Advance appropriations take center stage, identified as a critical step in the journey to achieve full, stable funding for the Indian Health Service. By securing funding for IHS in advance, this strategic approach aims to eliminate uncertainties and streamline the budgeting process for more efficient health care delivery.

The NCUIH Native Healthcast is produced by Jessica Gilbertson, MPA (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa), Director of Communications and Events, and introduced by River Carroll (Cheyenne and Arapaho), Policy and Communications Associate at NCUIH.

Search key timestamps:

[00:02:06] Learn about what Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) are and how they work within the Indian Health System (IHS).

[00:04:39] Understand the landscape of the health care services for American Indian and Alaska Native people, understanding the role of UIOs in providing essential support to urban Native populations.

[00:10:00] Learn the funding challenges that hinder health care accessibility as Meredith and Chandos shed light on the obstacles faced by urban Native communities.

[00:13:33] Decode the concept of advance appropriations for IHS and its impact on delivering vital services.

[00:18:43] Join the conversation on advocacy efforts, exploring the strategies and initiatives aimed at securing increased funding for IHS.

[00:22:56] Delve into the Indian Healthcare Improvement Act, understanding its role in shaping the future landscape of health care for urban Native populations.