National Indian Health Board

The National Indian Health Board (NIHB) is the unified national voice for Tribes on health, advancing the health and sovereignty of all 575+ federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native Tribes across the United States.

Who NIHB is

Established by Tribes in 1972, NIHB is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to advocate as the united voice of federally recognized Tribal nations on health and public health policy. NIHB represents Tribes that both operate their own health systems under self-determination as well as those whose citizens receive care directly from the Indian Health Service (IHS).

Mission and purpose

NIHB’s mission is to reinforce Tribal sovereignty, strengthen Tribal health systems, secure resources, and build capacity so Native people can achieve the highest possible level of health and well-being. At the heart of its work is the belief that traditional languages, cultures, and practices are foundational to Native health and resilience, not just part of the past.

NIHB also works to ensure that the federal government upholds its trust and treaty responsibilities to provide health and public health services to American Indian and Alaska Native peoples.

Why support matters

Indian Country continues to face chronic underfunding of the Indian Health System, deep health inequities, and emerging public health threats that require strong national advocacy and Tribal capacity. NIHB is uniquely positioned—created by Tribes and accountable to Tribes—to ensure that federal policy, funding, and systems change are driven by Tribal priorities and grounded in cultural integrity.

Support from donors allows NIHB to expand critical programs, deepen technical assistance to Tribal nations, amplify Tribal voices in national health debates, and help ensure that every Tribal community has the tools and resources needed to heal, grow, and thrive.