The Indian Health Service (IHS) may refer tribal members for services. True or false?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not applicable
• D. Only for emergencies

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that IHS coordinates care for American Indian and Alaska Native people and can arrange referrals when a needed service isn’t available at a local IHS clinic. If a required test, specialty, or procedure isn’t available on-site, IHS can refer the patient to another appropriate provider—this could be a tribal health facility, an urban Indian health program, or an outside hospital. The goal is to ensure access to the needed service, with funding and authorization arranged through IHS or partner programs as appropriate. So, it’s true that IHS may refer tribal members for services.