Resolution and Response: Protecting Indian Health Care, 1974-02-04

The Inter-Tribal Health Advisory Board of the Lawton Service Unit in Oklahoma expressed their disagreement with Senator Bellmon's proposal to put Indian people on a credit card system of health care, stating that Indian Health Service hospitals are essential and should be improved rather than replaced. They also emphasized the importance of treaty rights and the government's responsibility to provide for the health and educational needs of American Indians. Senator Bellmon proposed a Medicare-like program for Indians to receive treatment at any hospital, but the Advisory Board members felt that Indian hospitals would still be necessary on reservations in other states.