What type of care does the Indian Health Service provide?

The Indian Health Service (IHS) provides comprehensive healthcare services, which encompass a wide range of medical and support services, including preventive, rehabilitative, and primary care. This approach is designed to address the overall health needs of American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Preventive care is a crucial part of this service, as it aims to reduce the incidence of disease and improve health outcomes through routine screenings, immunizations, and health education. Rehabilitative care is also offered for individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries, emphasizing the importance of helping patients return to their normal functions and improving their quality of life.

While specialized services, such as mental health care, are an integral aspect of the overall health offerings, they are just one component of the comprehensive care model that IHS promotes. The focus on holistic health and the integration of various healthcare services makes the IHS distinct in its mission to provide accessible and culturally appropriate healthcare to indigenous populations.