Three Native American tribes revealed plans to assume control of Sioux San Hospital, a nine-bed facility in Rapid City, S.D., from the U.S. Indian Health Service, according to the Rapid City Journal.
The Oglala Sioux, Cheyenne River Sioux and Rosebud Sioux tribes each passed a resolution allowing the Great Plains Tribal Chairmen's Health Board to manage daily operations at the hospital, according to a news release from the board obtained by the Rapid City Journal. The hospital would continue to be funded by the federal government.
Tribal officials cited a recent history of poor care delivery at Sioux San Hospital and the IHS' decision to close the hospital's emergency department, among other reasons, to attempt to assume management of the hospital.
Tribal officials said the formal transition process may last between three and six months.
"The IHS recognizes that Tribes are in the best position to understand and address their own healthcare needs and priorities and supports tribal leaders and members' rights to self-determination and self-governance. The IHS looks forward to working with the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, the Oglala Sioux Tribe, and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe as they explore available options under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act for the Sioux San Hospital, including planning activities, meeting eligibility requirements, providing technical assistance, and more," a spokesperson for the IHS told the Rapid City Journal April 20.