Senate committee sets hearing on contract health

Monday, May 5, 2008  

The Senate Indian Affairs Committee has scheduled a hearing on contract health services in Indian Country.

The Indian Health Service uses contract health services funds to pay third-party providers for care that it cannot provide at its facilities. Tribes complain that the money runs out quickly.

Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-North Dakota), the chairman of the committee, has asked tribes for input about the program. In a March 27, he said it was "clear that there are significant problems in the overall functioning of the current system."

The hearing takes place Thursday, May 15.

Committee Notice:
OVERSIGHT HEARING on “Access to Contract Health Services in Indian Country” (May 15, 2008)

Relevant Documents: Sen. Dorgan Letter | HHS Budget in Brief

Senate committee to examine contract health services (4/7)