If you’re a locum tenens clinician with a passion for giving back, the Indian Health Service may have the professional experience you’re looking for next. Taking on locum tenens work with the Indian Health Service (IHS) can help fill an essential need for a culturally rich, highly appreciative community.
As part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, IHS exists to uphold our federal government’s obligation to provide health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives. Its national network of hospitals, clinics and public health outreach programs delivers comprehensive health services to approximately 2.2 million people who belong to more than 500 federally recognized tribes across the country.
American Indians and Alaska Natives suffer from many illnesses and diseases at much higher rates than the overall population. This includes higher rates of behavioral health issues that can have a tremendous impact on individuals, their families and entire communities.
Federal, tribal and urban IHS programs focus on public health and community outreach, blending traditional practices with the modern medical model. The IHS model has made strides for Indian people, with reported health improvements including a 10-year increase in life expectancy since 1973—plus marked decreases in maternal and infant mortality, unintentional injuries and accidents, pneumonia and influenza, homicide, suicide and alcoholism. A career at IHS represents an extraordinary opportunity to continue moving the needle for an underserved population.
The mission of IHS is to improve more than the physical well-being of American Indians and Alaska Natives. They’re committed to reaching the highest level of mental, social and spiritual health possible for this population. That includes ensuring they have access to comprehensive, culturally acceptable health services, and dedicated public health professionals that respect and honor their beliefs and rights.
As a locum tenens physician or advanced practitioner with IHS, your experience could mean immersion in a new location and culture, exposure to deep traditions and the opportunity to work with highly motivated health professionals.
We’ve been shining the spotlight on the variety of government opportunities available to locum tenens NPs, PAs, and physicians—including serving the military and supporting our veterans. Our guide to government locum tenens has the full story, including testimonials from clinicians in the field.
Want to talk to someone about government work? Contact VISTA, or visit our job board to see what opportunities are currently available.