President Bush on Tuesday nominated Robert G. McSwain, a member of the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians, to be director of the Indian Health Service.
McSwain has been serving as acting director since the departure of Dr. Charles Grim. In September, Grim withdrew his nomination for a second term as director.
McSwain began his IHS career in 1976 as director for the IHS California Area Office. He was transferred to the Washington, D.C., area in 1986 and has served in a number of national positions [Biography].
"Throughout his more than 30 years of federal service, he has shown a strong dedication and commitment to those served by the IHS. Bob remains dedicated to providing top-quality care to approximately 1.9 million American Indians and Alaska Natives and I am confident he will continue to serve this Department well," Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt said in a statement.
McSwain's position requires Senate confirmation.
Relevant Documents:Personnel Announcement | Statement by Mike Leavitt, Secretary of Health and Human Services, on the Nomination of Robert G. McSwain as Director of the Indian Health Service Relevant Links:
Indian Health Service - http://www.ihs.gov Related Stories:
Charles Grim withdraws nomination for IHS (9/6)
White House blocked testimony on trust responsibility (7/27)
IHS slow to resolve audit recommendations under Grim (7/26)
