National Health Center Week (Second Week of August)
Celebrating Lifelines of Care for Native Americans
National Health Center Week celebrates the vital role of community health centers (CHCs) in delivering primary care to underserved populations, including Native Americans. For many AI/AN individuals, these centers are not just places of care—they are trusted hubs of healing and support.
Health Centers and Native Americans
Urban Indian Health Programs (UIHPs) and tribal clinics serve more than 70% of Native Americans who live off-reservation. These centers:
Offer affordable, culturally competent care
Provide case management, preventive screenings, mental health services, and chronic disease management
Bridge traditional healing with modern medicine
Yet, funding gaps, staff shortages, and lack of culturally competent providers still hinder optimal care.
Culturally Respectful, Community-Led Care
Successful health centers:
Employ Native staff and health educators
Engage elders and traditional healers
Incorporate language preservation, food sovereignty, and cultural identity into health programming
Health centers that honor tribal values are more likely to earn community trust and produce better health outcomes.
A Call to Support and Expand Access
Everyone can play a role in advocating for stronger, more inclusive community health centers—especially in urban settings where many Native people reside.
New York Indian Council’s Role:
As a key Urban Indian Health Program, NYIC helps coordinate care for Native people in NYC who may not have direct access to IHS clinics. Through referrals, advocacy, and case management, NYIC supports Native clients in navigating mainstream health systems with dignity and cultural pride.
