Focus

Our Areas of Focus: Strengthening Health in Indian Country

At the heart of our mission is the commitment to addressing the health challenges that most affect American Indian and Alaska Native communities. In this section, we outline our five key focus areas: body, mind, and spirit; Tribal Public Health Capacity and Infrastructure, environmental health, nation-to-nation relations, and health equity. These are the pillars of our advocacy and action, guiding our efforts to create meaningful change and improve the well-being of Native peoples. By concentrating on these areas, we work collaboratively to ensure healthier, more resilient futures for Tribal Nations.
This category reflects a holistic approach to well-being, recognizing the interconnection between physical, emotional, and spiritual health. In Indian Country, this means addressing chronic and infectious diseases, promoting emotional resilience, and healing the impacts of trauma through culturally grounded and traditional practices. By focusing on holistic health, we aim to improve the everyday lives of American Indian and Alaska Native communities, ensuring they have the tools and resources to maintain a healthy body, mind, and spirit.
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Building robust public health capacity and infrastructure in Indian Country is essential to improving the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. This involves expanding access to healthcare services, addressing health disparities, and creating systems that are culturally responsive and inclusive. Strengthening infrastructure includes developing skilled public health workforces, enhancing data systems, and increasing the availability of facilities and resources to meet community needs. By focusing on collaborative efforts and honoring the unique cultural contexts of each Tribe, we aim to empower Tribal nations to lead sustainable, innovative public health initiatives that improve overall resilience and health outcomes.
browse Tribal Public Health Capacity and Infrastructure
Environmental health focuses on the relationship between people and their environment, ensuring that communities live in safe, healthy surroundings. In Indian Country, this includes addressing challenges such as access to clean water, air quality, and the effects of environmental pollution on Tribal lands. Our work in environmental health centers on advocating for environmental justice, promoting sustainable practices, and protecting natural resources that are vital to the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. By safeguarding the environment, we contribute to the long-term health of both the land and its people.
browse Environmental health​
The Tribes are sovereign nations that, over 150 years ago, entered into treaties promising their lands in exchange for health and more. This focus area emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the U.S. honors its treaties and trust responsibilities regarding the health of American Indian and Alaska Native peoples through federal agencies and legislation, such as the Indian Health Service. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to adequately fund these programs and provide Tribes with the support they need to thrive.
browse Government affairs
Health equity is about ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to attain their highest level of health, regardless of their background or circumstances. In Indian Country, this means addressing the systemic barriers that have historically marginalized American Indian and Alaska Native communities. We advocate for policies that promote equitable access to healthcare, eliminate disparities, and address the Indigenous Determinants of Health. Culturally appropriate data and data access are crucial in this effort.
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NIHB Response to Executive Orders

President Trump’s recent Executive Orders on federal funding could have serious implications for Tribal health. NIHB is actively advocating for Tribal Nations and providing key updates—click to learn more and access resources.