Upstate News
In a sweeping agreement, Upstate Medical University and the federal Indian Health Service (IHS) have committed to taking the necessary steps, through service, research and education to improve the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities across New York.
A key element of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Upstate and IHS is the development of an alliance of public health and medical institutions across the state to serve the priority needs of the AI/AN communities. Upstate will take the lead role in building institutional partnerships aimed at meeting the health needs of AI/AN communities.
“We are pleased to enter into this Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian Health Service,” said Upstate President Mantosh Dewan, MD. “This partnership is about working together to improve the health outcomes for the American Indian and Alaska Native communities in New York. By fostering collaboration across education, research, and service, Upstate and IHS aim to empower these communities with the resources, knowledge, and support needed to address the health disparities they face.”
“The Memorandum of Understanding between SUNY Upstate Medical University and the Indian Health Service represents a transformative partnership built on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to action,” said IHS Director Roselyn Tso. “This collaboration is more than just an agreement—it is a promise to work together toward meaningful, measurable improvements in the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. By combining our strengths, we are taking a significant step forward in reducing health disparities and advancing health equity.”
Additionally, Upstate will work with IHS to expand educational and health-related training opportunities for AI/AN individuals. The educational prong of the agreement seeks to broaden the diversity of the health care workforce, especially in such areas as community health, public health programming, health administration, policy development, and biomedical research. Distance learning and other options will be considered to ensure programming availability to remote tribal areas.