“We honor UAII’s legacy of service and welcome AIH&S into this new role with confidence and enthusiasm” 

-Virginia Hedrick, Executive Director of CCUIH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Download Full Statement Here
April 29, 2025

Sacramento, CA — The California Consortium for Urban Indian Health (CCUIH) extends its congratulations to American Indian Health & Services, Inc. (AIH&S) on being awarded the Title V contract by the California Area Indian Health Service (IHS) to provide vital healthcare services to American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities in Los Angeles County.

AIH&S, a trusted IHS-contracted Urban Indian Organization, with a decades-long track record of service in Santa Barbara, is nationally recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as a Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH). Known for its culturally grounded, high-quality services, including medical, dental, behavioral health, and pediatrics, AIH&S is now expanding its model of care to AI/AN individuals and families in Los Angeles County, home to one of the largest Urban Indian populations in the country.

CCUIH recognizes and honors the legacy of United American Indian Involvement (UAII), the previous Title V contractor for the Los Angeles area. For decades, UAII has played a significant role in advancing urban Indian health and wellness. We deeply respect their contributions and look forward to their continued presence and leadership in the broader urban Native landscape.  

 “We honor UAII’s legacy of service and welcome AIH&S into this new role with confidence and enthusiasm,” said Virginia Hedrick, Executive Director of CCUIH. 

Over the next three to five years, Los Angeles AIH&S will develop a comprehensive system of care in Los Angeles, offering an expanded range of services including cultural, primary care, dental care, women’s health, behavioral health, and substance abuse support. This work aims to ensure continuity, improve access, and provide culturally grounded care that meets the needs of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) individuals and families in Los Angeles.

For more information or questions regarding this announcement, please contact Mark Espinosa, Deputy Director of the IHS California Area Office, at (916) 930-3981 ext. 315.

About CCUIH:

The California Consortium for Urban Indian Health (CCUIH) supports health promotion and access to culturally appropriate healthcare for Urban Indian communities across California. Through advocacy, research, and collaboration, CCUIH works to strengthen the capacity of Urban Indian health programs and elevate Native voices in public health and policy.