Indian Health Service Opportunities

Clinical laboratory employment opportunities exist within the Indian Health Service (IHS). The IHS is an agency of the Department of Health and Human Services, and is the principal federal health care advocate and provider for approximately 1.5 million American Indians and Alaska Natives who belong to more than 550 federally recognized tribes in 35 states. It is composed of 12 regional offices and a system of 49 hospitals, 221 health centers, 120 health stations, 170 Alaska village clinics, and 34 urban projects. The laboratory test menu ranges from extensive in hospitals and larger ambulatory healthcare centers, to basic in the smaller facilities. Generalist Clinical Laboratory Scientists and technicians are an integral part of the health care team and are provided a challenging experience that is unique to the Indian Health Service. Clinical Laboratory Scientists/Technicians are employed as Commissioned Officers in the U.S. Public Health Service, or as Civil Servants. Whichever your choice, the IHS offers a variety of assignment choices, superb benefits, and the cultural experience of working with various Indian tribes.