NCUIH Honors Pfizer, Ishkode Fund, and Urban Indian Health Leaders

May 12, 2026/in Policy Blog, Press Release/by River Carroll

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 11, 2026) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented awards to partner organizations and Urban Indian Organization (UIO) leadership and staff for their work to advance urban Native health during our 2026 Annual Conference. NCUIH thanks the awardees for their dedication to urban Native health and their efforts to ensure that all Native people have access to high-quality health care services, no matter where they live.

Native Health Partnership Excellence Award: Presented to Pfizer and Accepted by Melissa Bishop-Murphy

The Native Health Partnership Excellence Award recognizes an individual or organization that has shown exceptional dedication and effectiveness in partnering with urban Native communities to improve health care outcomes. This year’s award was presented to Pfizer.

Over the past four years, Pfizer has invested more than $800,000 in NCUIH’s work, demonstrating a sustained and meaningful commitment to improving health outcomes for urban Native people. Pfizer’s partnership has helped advance NCUIH’s mission to ensure that American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas have access to high quality, culturally grounded care.

Native Health Rising Ally Award: Presented to Ishkode Fund (Accepted by Kate Trujillo, Senior Programs Director)

The Native Health Rising Ally Award honors an emerging leader or organization who has demonstrated outstanding support, advocacy, and allyship in advancing urban Native American health initiatives. This year’s award was presented to the Ishkode Fund, accepted by Senior Programs Director Kate Trujillo.

The Ishkode Fund has demonstrated a growing and genuine commitment to health equity and allyship with Urban Indian Organizations. NCUIH is proud to recognize Ishkode’s investment in Native communities and looks forward to continuing to build this important partnership in the years ahead.

The Distinguished Service Award: Presented to Walter Murillo (Choctaw), Outgoing NCUIH Board President and CEO of Native Health

The Distinguished Service Award honors exceptional dedication and sustained commitment to NCUIH and to Native communities across the country. It recognizes individuals whose leadership, advocacy, and service have strengthened urban Indian health, advanced meaningful change, and helped elevate the voices and needs of Native people. This year’s award was presented to Walter Murillo (Choctaw), outgoing NCUIH Board President and Chief Executive Officer of Native Health in Phoenix, Arizona.

Walter’s leadership has embodied the compassion, integrity, and deep sense of responsibility to community that this award was created to honor. His contributions leave a lasting mark on NCUIH’s mission and reflect the spirit of service and solidarity that continues to move the organization forward.

Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award: Presented to LivA’ndrea Knoki, Board of Directors President, Native Americans for Community Action

The Urban Indian Organization Visionary Award celebrates an individual within an Urban Indian Organization who has demonstrated visionary leadership and innovation in addressing challenges and opportunities within urban Native communities. This year’s award was presented to LivA’ndrea Knoki, Board of Directors President of Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) in Flagstaff, Arizona.

As NACA’s first woman Board President, LivA’ndrea has served in this role for seven years, advancing the organization’s mission by strengthening governance, expanding strategic partnerships, and centering culturally grounded approaches in urban Indigenous health. She has helped reimagine access to care beyond traditional clinic-based models and has advanced culturally rooted practices — including traditional healing, conscious language, and ceremonial protocol — within urban systems. Her leadership has helped operationally define “Indigenous Values” to support services for youth, elders, LGBTQ2S+ relatives, and unhoused relatives, while reinforcing that Urban Indigenous Health requires models distinct from rural or reservation-based systems.

Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award: Presented to Michael Duran, Director of Counseling, Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley

The Urban Indian Organization Staff Member of the Year Award recognizes a staff member of an Indian Health Service-funded Urban Indian Organization who demonstrates exceptional dedication, leadership, and service in advancing the organization’s mission and goals. This year’s award was presented to Michael Duran, Director of Counseling at the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley.

Michael has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing culturally grounded care, ensuring that Traditional Healing is not only recognized but integrated as a vital component of community wellness. His work has moved beyond theory to create tangible, positive outcomes for those he serves, making him an exceptional example of the dedication that drives urban Native health forward.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Honors Chairman Tom Cole and Ranking Member Chellie Pingree with Urban Indian Health Champion Award

May 6, 2026/in Policy Blog, Press Release/by Meredith Raimondi

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 29, 2026) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented the Urban Indian Health Champion Award to Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK-04), Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, and Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, during NCUIH’s 2026 Annual Conference.

Chairman Cole and Ranking Member Pingree helped secure the continuation of critical HHS Native health set-asides and grants beyond IHS, including SAMHSA’s Native Connections and CDC’s Good Health and Wellness in Indian Country. These programs are integral to the holistic health care of Native communities and to fulfilling the federal trust responsibility.

Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK-04), Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations

An enrolled member of the Chickasaw Nation, Chairman Cole has been a steadfast advocate for Indian Country throughout his career, consistently using his position at the top of the House Appropriations Committee to ensure those obligations are met.

“We count on [your] Indian health care centers to discharge the federal trust responsibility in terms of health care, and you do a magnificent job of helping our folks, particularly in challenging moments in time.”

— Rep. Tom Cole, Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations

Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Ranking Member, House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

Rep. Pingree has been a consistent and powerful voice for Native health on the subcommittee that directly oversees IHS funding, and a driving force in maintaining bipartisan commitment to upholding treaty and trust obligations — even in difficult budget years.

“It is our deep responsibility to uphold our treaty and trust obligations, and we have to make sure we do that every year.”

— Rep. Chellie Pingree, Ranking Member, House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

The award recognizes members of Congress who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and leadership in advocating for issues vital to Native communities. Under their leadership, Congress enacted FY 2026 appropriations including $95.42 million for Urban Indian Health — a $5 million increase over FY 2025.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Honors HHS Senior Advisor Mark Cruz with Excellence in Public Service Award

May 6, 2026/in Policy Blog, Press Release/by Meredith Raimondi

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 29, 2026) – The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) presented the Excellence in Public Service to Advance Native Health Award to Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to the Secretary at the Department of Health and Human Services, during NCUIH’s 2026 Annual Conference.

Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to the Secretary, HHS and and Walter Murillo, CEO of NATIVE HEALTH, and NCUIH Vice-President

“My commitment to you all is to always engage, to always show up.”

— Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to the Secretary, HHS, April 28, 2026

The Excellence in Public Service to Advance Native Health Award recognizes a federal public servant whose work has meaningfully advanced health care access for Native people, including those living in urban areas. Mark Cruz was appointed in June 2025 as the first-ever Senior Advisor to the HHS Secretary, a position created to ensure Native health priorities are represented at the highest levels of the Department. Since taking office, Mark has delivered — proposing advanced appropriations for IHS in the President’s FY 2027 budget request and helping drive Secretary Kennedy’s $1 billion commitment to IHS construction. He has also logged thousands of miles visiting Urban Indian Organizations across the country — a reflection of his belief that showing up is part of the job. NCUIH is grateful for his partnership and dedication to advancing Native health.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

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NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH April Policy Update: 2026-27 Policy Priorities, FY 2027 President’s Budget Update, Medicaid and 340B, and IHS Policy Developments

April 22, 2026/in Policy Blog/by NCUIH

In this Edition:

📋 NCUIH Released 2026-2027 Policy Priorities
📊 FY 2027 President’s Budget: Proposes Increase for Indian Health Service, Advance Appropriations for FY 2028
🤝 60 Bipartisan Representatives Sign Letter Supporting IHS and Urban Indian Health Funding
💰 HRSA 340B Rebate Pilot Program: NCUIH and TTAG Support for IHCP Exemption
📋 FMAP Updates for Urban Indian Organizations
💻 NCUIH Comments on IHS Health IT Modernization PATH Activities
🌾 Rural Health Transformation Fund: NCUIH Requests UIO Input
📅 Upcoming Policy Events, Deadlines, and Opportunities
🎉 Join Us April 27–30 for the 2026 NCUIH Annual Conference

NCUIH Released 2026-2027 Policy Priorities

NCUIH has released its 2026-2027 Policy Priorities, which outlines a summary of urban Indian organization (UIO) federal priorities:

Increasing Funding for IHS and the Urban Indian Health Line Item
Establishing Permanent Full (100%) Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for Medicaid Services at UIOs
Increasing Behavioral Health Funding
Stability in Federal Grants
Health Information Technology and Electronic Health Record Improvement

Read the full priorities.

President Releases FY 2027 Budget with Proposed Increase for IHS, Congress Requests Protection of IHS Funding

On April 3, 2026, the President released the full Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of Health and Human Services Budget In Brief and the Indian Health Service (IHS) Congressional Justification. The budget prioritizes funding for IHS by proposing $9.1 billion for the Indian Health Service — an increase of more than $1 billion above FY 2026 enacted levels. It also includes:

Advance Appropriations for IHS for FY 2028: $5.6B
Read more on NCUIH’s blog.

60 Bipartisan Representatives Sign Letter Supporting IHS and Urban Indian Health Funding

In a significant show of bipartisan support, 60 Members of Congress signed a dear-colleague letter urging the protection of IHS funding and increased resources for Urban Indian Health. NCUIH supporting this effort which included requests for $106 million for Urban Indian Health, maintaining Advance Appropriations for IHS, and protecting IHS from sequestration.

Health Resources and Services Administration 340B Rebate Pilot Program Updates – NCUIH Support for Indian Health Care Provider Exemption

The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) is seeking information on potential implementation of a 340B Rebate Model Pilot Program rebate pilot program, which poses administrative and financial burdens for Indian Health Care Providers (IHCPs), including Urban Indian Organizations.

NCUIH and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Tribal Technical Advisory Group (TTAG) are supporting an exemption for IHCPs from the 340B rebate pilot program and requesting tribal consultation and urban confer.

Comments to HRSA are due April 20, 2026. Submission information can be found here.

HRSA Visit to NATIVE HEALTH in Arizona

NCUIH’s CEO participated in a HRSA visit to NATIVE HEALTH on April 9, providing an opportunity to highlight the impact of 340B on Urban Indian clinics directly to HRSA leadership. The visit included Tom Engels, HRSA Administrator; Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy; Francys Crevier, NCUIH CEO, as well as Jack Ganter, HRSA Director of Legislation and Devin Delrow, Principal Advisor for Tribal Affairs, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Federal Updates: 100% FMAP for UIOs and Traditional Healing Reimbursement

FMAP Support at CMS TTAG Meeting

Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) policy continues to be a critical issue for UIOs. Updates include:

NCUIH Board President Walter Murillo, who serves as the NCUIH representative on the CMS TTAG, raised the need of 100% Federal Medical Assistance Percentage for UIOs, specifically for Traditional Healing services reimbursement, to CMS leadership during the the March 24-25 CMS TTAG quarterly meeting.

Read more on NCUIH’s Policy Resource Center.

NCUIH Submitted Comments on IHS Health IT Modernization PATH Activities

On April 4, 2026, NCUIH submitted written comments to IHS in response to the March 5 Health IT Modernization Tribal Consultation/Urban Confer on Patients at the Heart (PATH) Electronic Health Record (EHR) activities.

NCUIH recommended that IHS ensure cohort selection equally prioritizes all facility types and provide UIOs with clear guidance on PATH EHR implementation.

NCUIH is Requesting UIO Input on Rural Health Transformation Fund Awards

On December 29, 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) awarded all 50 states funding through the Rural Health Transformation Fund (RHTF). Read more about this funding on NCUIH’s blog.

Request for UIOs:

Let NCUIH know if your UIO receives RHTF funding. Contact: policy@ncuih.org

2026 NCUIH Annual Conference

April 27–30, 2026, in Washington, D.C., as NCUIH marks the 50th anniversary of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA)—a landmark commitment to the health and well-being of American Indians and Alaska Natives—and reflects on five decades of progress, collaboration, and continued commitment to Native health.

Registration has closed.

Notable sessions include:

IHS Listening Session — An opportunity for UIOs to engage directly with IHS leadership on policy priorities.

NCUIH Annual Conference 2026 Website

Upcoming Events and Policy Dates

April 21-22 — HHS Annual Tribal Budget Consultation (Washington, DC)
April 27–30, 2026 — 2026 NCUIH Annual Conference (Washington, D.C.)
May 20 — NCUIH Monthly Policy Workgroup (virtual)

Recent NCUIH Policy Blogs

President’s Budget Proposes Increase for Indian Health Service, Advance Appropriations for FY 2028
April 3, 2026/in Policy Blog/by NCUIH
NCUIH Recognized at IHS 70th Anniversary Tribal Summit for Exceptional Partnership
March 28, 2026/in Policy Blog/by River Carroll
Tribal Leaders Recommend Increased Urban Indian Health Funding for Fiscal Year 2028
March 25, 2026/in Policy Blog/by Alex Sampson

NCUIH Policy Blog

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

NCUIH Requests the Indian Health Service Strengthen Relationships with Area Offices Under the Proposed Realignment

April 22, 2026/in Policy Blog/by Alex Sampson

On February 27, 2026, the National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) submitted written comments to the Indian Health Service (IHS) Chief of Staff, Clayton Fulton, regarding IHS’ November 13, 2025, and December 5, 2025, Dear Tribal Leader and Urban Indian Organization (UIO) Leader letters (DTLLs/DULLs) and January 15, 2026, virtual Urban Confer on the IHS Proposed Realignment.

In the written comments, NCUIH recommended IHS strengthen UIOs’ relationships with Area Offices as part of the Proposed Realignment, and emphasized the importance of protecting UIO contracts, addressing IHS staffing needs, and ensuring continued engagement with UIOs, while also highlighting the importance of 100% Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for UIOs.

NCUIH will continue to closely follow the development and implementation of IHS’ Proposed Realignment.

Background on the IHS Proposed Realignment

On June 13, 2025, IHS published a DTLL/DULL announcing IHS was initiating Tribal Consultation and Urban Confer to receive comments and recommendations regarding IHS’ Proposed Realignment. IHS described the goal of the Proposed Realignment as creating a “more accountable, efficient, and responsive IHS that maximizes resources and improves outcomes while simultaneously strengthening intergovernmental relationships for better service coordination and funding access.” During the Urban Confer session on the Proposed Realignment, IHS shared the agency is still in the development phase. As part of the development phase, IHS was seeking feedback from relevant stakeholders, including Tribes and UIOs.

On November 13, 2025, IHS’ then-Acting Director, Ben Smith, published a DTLL/DULL announcing the next phase in the Agency’s proposed realignment which would include four in-person Tribal Consultation sessions and one virtual Urban Confer session. On December 5, 2025, the IHS Chief of Staff released a DTLL/DULL in response to requests for additional opportunities and added more in-person sessions and a virtual Tribal Consultation. IHS also released a realignment narrative, a draft re-organization chart, and a frequently asked questions document. During the second Urban Confer on the Proposed Realignment, IHS reiterated that no decisions had been made by IHS regarding the Proposed Realignment.

IHS also created a webpage on IHS’ website on the Proposed Realignment.

Next Steps

While the path forward is subject to change, IHS shared the Agency plans to have a Federal Register comment period (30 days) followed by a Federal Register notice with a “Transition to Future State” occurring between May and June of 2026. IHS stated that the Agency plans to continue to use Tribal Consultation and Urban Confer to keep Tribes and UIOs up to date on the Proposed Realignment.

NCUIH Engages Federal Leaders on Urban Indian Health at NATIVE HEALTH Site Visit in Arizona

April 16, 2026/in Policy Blog/by River Carroll

On April 9, 2026, Walter Murillo (Choctaw), Board President of National Council of Urban Indian Health and CEO of NATIVE HEALTH, welcomed a distinguished group of federal leaders to NATIVE HEALTH’s Arizona facility for a site visit showcasing the important role of Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) in delivering care to Native communities. NATIVE Health is one of 11 HRSA-funded UIOs serving Native communities across the country.

The delegation included Tom Engels, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Administrator; Mark Cruz, Senior Advisor to HHS Secretary Kennedy; Jack Ganter, HRSA Director of Legislation; and Devin Delrow, Principal Advisor for Tribal Affairs, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NCUIH CEO, Francys Crevier (Algonquin), joined the visit, ensuring NCUIH had a direct voice in conversations with federal decision-makers.

During the visit, leaders toured the facility, engaged with staff, and witnessed firsthand how UIOs provide culturally responsive care in urban settings. NCUIH used the occasion to elevate a top priority: securing an exemption for Tribal and Urban Indian facilities from HRSA’s 340B Rebate Model Pilot. The 340B drug pricing program is essential to UIO operations, enabling facilities like NATIVE HEALTH to extend limited resources and broaden access to care for American Indian and Alaska Native patients.

NCUIH also reinforced the distinct legal and operational framework within which UIOs function — a framework that federal policy must account for. Engagements like this are critical to ensuring Native voices are part of federal decision-making and that agency leadership understands the on-the-ground realities of urban Indian health programs.

NCUIH will continue pursuing direct engagement with HRSA and HHS leadership to protect and advance UIO priorities.

Background

The 340B Drug Pricing Program allows qualifying safety-net providers, including UIOs, to purchase outpatient drugs at significantly reduced costs. These savings are reinvested to expand services and improve health outcomes for underserved populations. HRSA’s proposed 340B Rebate Model Pilot has raised concerns across the UIO community, as it could undermine the financial sustainability of programs that American Indian and Alaska Native communities in urban areas depend on. NCUIH has consistently worked to protect Tribal and Urban Indian facilities from harmful changes to the 340B program.

President’s Budget Proposes Increase for Indian Health Service, Advance Appropriations for FY 2028

April 3, 2026/in Policy Blog/by Meredith Raimondi

On April 3, 2026, the President released the full Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Department of Health and Human Services Budget In Brief and the Indian Health Service (IHS) Congressional Justification. The budget prioritizes funding for IHS by proposing $9.1 billion for the Indian Health Service — an increase of more than $1 billion above FY 2026 enacted levels. Notably, the budget also requests $5.6 billion in advance appropriations for FY 2028, ensuring continuity of care for IHS, Tribal, and urban Indian health programs regardless of disruptions in the annual appropriations process.

The budget states that advance appropriations provide IHS with “predictable, stable funding that allows facilities to maintain operations, retain staff, and plan effectively across fiscal years.” Importantly, the budget also reflects direct Tribal input, stating that it “incorporates top tribal budget recommendations and invests in systems that enable Tribes to manage their own health programs effectively.” This commitment reflects the Administration’s recognition that funding stability and Indian Country partnership are essential to the success of the Indian health system.

Advance appropriations for IHS proved critical during the 2025 government shutdown, when IHS and urban Indian health programs were able to maintain operations and protect services for patients. Maintaining advance appropriations will help ensure the Indian health system continues to be protected from future funding disruptions.

Next Steps

The FY 2027 proposal serves as a statement of the Administration’s policy and funding priorities. The budget acts primarily as a symbolic blueprint of the President’s vision for the size and scope of the federal government. The final appropriations will be determined through the Congressional budget process. The House and Senate Appropriations Committees are currently crafting their respective FY 2027 funding bills.

NCUIH has stood alongside Tribes, Urban Indian Organizations, and the community to advocate for stable and secure resources for the Indian health system. NCUIH will continue to engage with lawmakers to ensure the Indian health system and all Tribal programs receive the resources they need. NCUIH encourages Tribal leaders and Urban Indian Organizations to share their priorities as the Congressional process moves forward.

A more detailed NCUIH analysis of the budget will be released next week.

About NCUIH

The National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) is a national representative for the 41 Urban Indian Organizations contracting with the Indian Health Service under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act. NCUIH is devoted to the support and development of high quality and accessible health and public health services for American Indian and Alaska Native people living in urban areas.

NCUIH respects and supports Tribal sovereignty and the unique government-to-government relationship between our Tribal Nations and the United States. NCUIH works to support those federal laws, policies, and procedures that respect and uplift Tribal sovereignty and the government-to-government relationship. NCUIH does not support any federal law, policy, or procedure that infringes upon or in any way diminishes Tribal sovereignty or the government-to-government relationship.

NCUIH Contact: Meredith Raimondi, Vice President of Policy and Communications, mraimondi@ncuih.org

NCUIH Recognized at IHS 70th Anniversary Tribal Summit for Exceptional Partnership

March 28, 2026/in Policy Blog/by River Carroll

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 30, 2026) – During the Indian Health Service (IHS) 70th Anniversary Tribal Summit on February 13, 2026, the National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH) was recognized as one of four exceptional partners whose leadership, advocacy, and collaboration strengthen the Indian health system.

“The success of the Indian health system depends on the strong, interwoven relationship between the IHS, Tribal governments, and urban Indian organizations.” — the Indian Health Service

Clayton Fulton (Cherokee) Chief of Staff for IHS and Walter Murillo (Choctaw), NCUIH Board President and Native Health CEO

Walter Murillo (Choctaw), NCUIH Board President and Chief Executive Officer of Native Health in Phoenix, accepted the recognition on behalf of NCUIH. The recognition highlights the vital role of NCUIH’s work with urban Indian organizations within the broader Indian health system and affirms the importance of strong partnerships between IHS, Tribal governments, and urban Indian organizations. As IHS marks 70 years of service, this recognition reflects both progress and the ongoing responsibility to support Native health systems that are responsive, coordinated, and rooted in community priorities.

NCUIH remains committed to advancing policies and partnerships that improve health outcomes and strengthen care for all Native people nationwide.

Tribal Leaders Recommend Increased Urban Indian Health Funding for Fiscal Year 2028

March 25, 2026/in Policy Blog/by Alex Sampson

On January 21-22, 2026, the Indian Health Service (IHS) held their Area Report Presentations Webinar for Fiscal Year (FY) 2028 where Tribal leaders from all 12 IHS Areas and leaders from Native organizations, including the National Council of Urban Indian Health (NCUIH), presented on their budget requests. Following the FY 2028 Area Report Presentations, Tribal leaders and organizations convened for the National Tribal Budget Formulation Work session from February 10–12.

This critical two-day session saw representatives from all 12 IHS Areas consolidate regional needs into a unified national strategy. A key highlight of these recommendations is a proposed $1.5 billion increase for the Urban Indian Health line item, elevating it to Priority 10 overall. NCUIH stands firmly behind the Workgroup’s vision and applauds the Tribal leaders’ historic commitment to closing the funding gap for urban Indian health.

Area Report Highlights

Several Areas featured the work of Urban Indian Organizations (UIOs) in their presentations and advocated for increased allocation of funding and/or resources for urban Indian health.

Area	Key Takeaways from Recommendation for Urban Indian Health
Bemidji Area	$1 billion for the Urban Health line item above the FY 2026 enacted base “Urban Health” as Priority 6
Billings Area	$2.6 billion increase above the FY 2026 enacted base “Urban Indian Health” as Priority 8
California Area	“Urban” as Hot Topic 1
Great Plains Area	$1.7 billion above the FY 2026 enacted base “Urban Indian Health” as Priority 7
Nashville Area	“Funding Increases for Urban Indian Health Programs” in the Area’s Standing Priorities
Navajo Area	$9.6 billion increase above the FY 2026 enacted base “Urban” as Priority 3
Oklahoma City Area	$576.2 million increase above the FY 2026 enacted base. “Urban Health” as Priority 5 “Urban Issues – 100% FMAP” as Hot Issue 12
Phoenix Area	$5.1 million increase above the FY 2026 enacted base “Funding to increase Urban Indian Health Programs” as Hot Issue 12
Portland Area	$1.1 billion increase above the FY 2026 enacted base “Urban Indian Health” as Hot Topic 8
Tucson Area	$1.7 billion increase above the FY 2026 enacted base

Background on Area Budget Formulation

As part of the trust responsibility to provide health care to all American Indian and Alaska Native people, Tribal leaders present their funding needs each year to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. The recommendations are formed through the Tribal Budget Formulation Workgroup and serve as a framework for the Administration in setting budget amounts for their annual requests to Congress. This process ensures the federal government has the resources to provide health care to all American Indian and Alaska Native people in fulfillment of the trust responsibility.

NCUIH’s Budget Priorities

NCUIH presented the following top priorities for urban Indian health for FY 2028 during the Area Report Webinar:

Full funding for IHS and the Urban Indian line item
1. This funding is necessary to address health priorities for Native in urban areas, including:
  1. Ensuring Urban Indian Health funding keeps pace with population growth.
  2. Providing funding for UIO facilities and infrastructure.
  3. Expanding service offerings to Native patients in urban areas.
Establishing Permanent 100% FMAP for services provided to Medicaid beneficiaries at UIOs
Increased funding for behavioral health
Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI) reauthorization
Funding for health information technology and electronic health records

NCUIH endorses a budget in which IHS, Tribal Facilities, and UIOs are all fully funded to improve health outcomes for all Native people no matter where they live.

Next Steps

At least one tribal representative from each Area along with technical team members will coordinate to complete follow-up work on the budget recommendation and testimony that will be presented.

Bipartisan Group of 60 Congressional Leaders Request Protection of IHS Funding and Increased Resources for Urban Indian Health

March 25, 2026/in Policy Blog/by Jeremy Grabiner

On March 20, 2026, 59 Congressional leaders joined Representative Leger Fernandez in her letter  to Chairman Simpson and Ranking Member Pingree of the House Interior Appropriations Committee requesting a minimum of $106 million for Urban Indian Health, maintaining advance appropriations for the Indian Health Service (IHS), and protecting IHS from sequestration in the final fiscal year (FY) 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The letter emphasizes that the federal government has a trust responsibility to provide federal health services to maintain and improve the health of American Indian and Alaska Native people.

The bipartisan group of 60 Congressional leaders reiterated their support for the House Appropriations Committee’s inclusion of advance appropriations for IHS for FY 2027 in the final FY 2026 appropriations bill. Previously, IHS was the only federal health care provider funded through annual appropriations. Without advance appropriations, IHS is subject to the negative impacts of government shutdowns and continuing resolutions that can lead to serious disruptions in urban Indian organizations ability to provide critical patient services. The continued inclusion of advance appropriations is a crucial step toward ensuring long-term stable funding for IHS.

This letter sends a powerful message to Chairman Simpson and Ranking Member Pingree, and Members of Congress that in order to fulfill the federal government’s trust responsibility to all Native people to provide safe and quality healthcare, funding for IHS must be significantly increased.

NCUIH is grateful for the support of the following Representatives:

Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM-03)
Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03)
Dusty Johnson (R-SD-AL)
Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ-03)
Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44)
Ami Bera (D-CA-06)
Shontel Brown (D-OH-11)
Julia Brownley (D-CA-26)
Janelle Bynum (D-OR-05)
Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24)
Greg Casar (D-TX-35)
Gilbert Cisneros (D-CA-31)
Steve Cohen (D-TN-09)
Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30)
Jason Crow (D-CO-06)
Sharice Davids (D-KS-03)
Danny Davis (D-IL-07)
Diana DeGette (D-CO-01)
Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03)
Shomari Figures (D-AL-02)
Jesús García (D-IL-04)
Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ-07)
Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05)
Val Hoyle (D-OR-04)
Jared Huffman (D-CA-02)
Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51)
Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07)
Julie Johnson (D-TX-32)
Timothy Kennedy (D-NY-26)
Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08)
Rick Larsen (D-WA-02)
Stephen Lynch (D-MA-08)
Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02)
Doris Matsui (D-CA-07)
Lucy McBath (D-GA-06)
Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08)
Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07)
Gwen Moore (D-WI-04)
Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23)
Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15)
Joe Neguse (D-CO-02)
Ilhan Omar (D-MN-05)
Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19)
Scott Peters (D-CA-50)
Brittany Pettersen (D-CO-07)
Luz Rivas (D-CA-29)
Raul Ruiz (D-CA-25)
Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06)
Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03)
Kim Schrier (D-WA-08)
Adam Smith (D-WA-09)
Darren Soto (D-FL-09)
Melanie Stansbury (D-NM-01)
Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04)
Haley Stevens (D-MI-11)
Mark Takano (D-CA-39)
Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12)
Ritchie Torres (D-NY-15)
Juan Vargas (D-CA-52)
Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-02)

Full Letter Text

Dear Chairman Simpson and Ranking Member Pingree:

As you develop the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, we request that you fund Urban Indian Health at the highest possible level, with a minimum of $106 million. We also request that you retain advance appropriations for the Indian Health Service (IHS) in FY 2028 and protect IHS from any sequestration cuts.

The federal government has a trust responsibility to provide federal health services to maintain and improve the health of American Indian and Alaska Native people. According to the Tribal Budget Formulation Workgroup (TBFWG), a workgroup comprised of Tribal leaders representing all twelve IHS service areas and serving all 574 federally recognized Tribes, “only a significant increase to the Urban Indian Health line item will allow UIOs to increase and expand services to address the needs of their Native patients, support the hiring and retention of culturally competent staff, and open new facilities to address the growing demand for UIO services.”

American Indians and Alaska Natives experience major health disparities compared to the general U.S. population, including lower life expectancy, higher rates of infant and maternal mortality, and psychological or behavioral health issues. This is true regardless of where an American Indian or Alaska Native person lives. A lack of sufficient federal funding for the Indian Health Service budget plays a significant role in these continuing devastating health disparities, as the Indian health system simply does not have the necessary financial resources and support to address these inequities.

The lack of federal funding is deeply impactful for UIOs who are on the front lines in working to provide for the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native people living outside of Tribal jurisdictions. UIOs are an integral part of the Indian health system, comprised of the Indian Health Service, Tribes, and UIOs (collectively I/T/U), and provide essential healthcare services, including primary care, behavioral health, and social and community services, to patients from over 500 Tribes in 38 urban areas across the United States.

Unfortunately, despite being an integral part of the I/T/U system UIOs are chronically underfunded. The urban Indian health line item historically makes up only one percent (1 percent) of IHS’ annual appropriation and UIOs often only receive direct funding from the urban Indian health line item. UIOs generally do not receive direct funds from any other distinct IHS accounts, including the Hospital and Health Clinics, Indian Health Care Improvement Fund, Health Education, Indian Health Professions, or any of the line items under the IHS Facilities account.

Without a significant increase to the Urban Indian Health line item, UIOs will continue to be forced to operate on limited and inflexible budgets that limit their ability to fully address the needs of their patients. Current funding levels pose challenges for UIOs in offering competitive salaries to attract and retain qualified staff who are essential for delivering quality care to their communities. Additionally, UIOs need resources to expand their services and programs, including addressing pressing issues such as food insecurity, behavioral health challenges, and rising facilities costs. By providing UIOs with the necessary resources, we can ensure that American Indian and Alaska Native people receive the comprehensive and culturally competent healthcare services they deserve.

We appreciate the inclusion of advanced appropriations for IHS for FY 2027 in the final FY2026 appropriations bill. Because of this inclusion, the I/T/U system will be able to operate normally and without fear of funding lapses during the FY 2027 appropriations negotiation process. We emphasize that advanced appropriations are a crucial step towards ensuring long-term, stable funding for IHS and, therefore, it is imperative that you include advance appropriations for IHS FY 2028 in the final FY 2027 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Further, for the reasons discussed above, we request that you protect IHS from any sequestration measures taken in this Act, as IHS, and the urban Indian line item, cannot afford any funding reduction.

Thank you for your consideration of our request.