Report Highlights Severe Shortages in Oklahoma Indian Hospitals, Calls for Urgent Congressional Action, 1969-10-11

Three Oklahoma Indian hospitals operated by the United States Public Health Service are facing drastic shortages of medicine and medical supplies due to funding shortages. Inspections revealed that hospitals in Claremore, Pawnee, and Tahlequah are struggling to provide adequate medical treatment to their patients. The blame is placed on the federal government for failing to appropriate adequate funds for Indian health care. The hospitals are operating on a month-to-month basis and are in need of major expenditures for facility replacements and renovations. Steps are being taken by Congress to address the immediate drug and equipment crisis and to determine funding needs for future years. The Indian Health Service staff are commended for their work under difficult conditions.