Notice to clients that pick up medication at United Indian Health Services, Inc. (UIHS) Satellite Clinics in Crescent City, Fortuna, Klamath, or Weitchpec.

To assure medication safety and maintain compliance with California State Board of Pharmacy regulations:

As of Monday, April 29, 2013

• No prescriptions may be delivered or picked up at UIHS Satellite Clinics.
• Prescriptions are still available for pick-up at the UIHS Potawot Health Village Pharmacy in Arcata.

For questions call:

• Humboldt - (707) 825-5020
• Del Norte - (707) 465-2970

UIHS apologizes for the inconvenience this change may cause.

 ~ Dental Services Update ~ 

Dear Clients,
Dental will be transitioning from a paper health record to an electronic health record soon.

Dental Appointments will be limited during the months of May and June and appointment times may be a little longer during this transition.

This new system will allow us to be more efficient and help us to continue to provide quality healthcare.

Please do not hesitate to call or ask questions.

• Arcata Dental Services - (707) 825-5040
• Crescent City Dental Services - (707) 465-2960

We thank you for being patient during this transition.

Tobacco PSA

 

Del Norte Teen Advisory Group (TAG) Members

 United Indian Health Services’ Teen Advisory Group, better known as TAG, is comprised of youth between the ages of 12 and 18 who reside in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties and qualify for services at UIHS.

For more information about TAG, please contact the Health Promotion and Education Section in Humboldt at 707.825.5070 or in Del Norte at 707.464.2919.

 People at UIHS

• Clients:  All clients shall check in at Patient Registration or appropriate reception windows upon arrival.  Clients will then be directed to the appropriate waiting area for their scheduled appointment time.
• Client Family/Friends:  Visitors accompanying clients will not be allowed to wander through "restricted access areas".
• Restricted Access Areas:  There are sensitive areas requiring "restricted access."  Restricted access means access to these areas is allowed to those staff assigned to work directly in the areas and to client receiving services in these areas.
• Staff:  UIHS Staff and contracted personnel providing services will wear an UIHS Indentification Badge.
• Facility Visitors:  All other visitors to the facility will report to the Administration Section Receptionist to obtain a Vistor ID badge.

Client Satisfaction

UIHS welcomes client comments as an opportunity to improve client care.  We offer several avenues for client input including surveys at all UIHS sites.

Client Concerns

If a client has a serious concern, two levels of complaints are available.  Complaint forms can be picked up at all reception areas.

• Informal Complaint - refers to an  unsigned complaint that is documented on an "Informal Complaint Form".  Staff members who are recipients of complaints are to document the incident on an "Informal Complaint Form."
• Formal Complaint - refers to written, signed complaint that is documented on a "Formal Complaint Form".
• UIHS Client Complaint policy, available upon request.

Advance Directives

An advance directive tells the doctor what kind of care the client would like to have if they become unable to make medical decisions.  UIHS provides the opportunity for clients to gain informatioin regarding advance directive options, obtain appropriate forms and resources available.

• Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care - You are able to name a person or persons to act on your behalf if you were ever so ill or disabled that you could not make your wishes known.
• Living Will - A Living Will allows you to document in advance your wishes regarding lfe sustaining treatments.
• Treatment Preferences - Your wishes with regards to treatment.

For more information about how to develop an Advance Directive, talk with your UIHS Medical Provider.

UIHS Fees

In accordance with federal and state
regulations, UIHS bills "third party
payers" (Private Insurance, Medicare,
and Medi-Cal) for services provided
to our clients.  Clients may be financially
responsible for certain special services
including but not limited to medical,
dental, vision, pharmacy, etc.

Dental Fees

Laboratory fees (cost only) are applied to treatment options beyond basic dental services (dental exams, fillings, etc.) or for elective services (crowns, dentures, orthrodontic treatment, repairs).  Clients who choose elective services will be responsible for dental laboratory fees involved with these services.  For more information, please ask dental staff at any site that provides dental services.

Pharmacy Fees

Clients should contact the pharmacy directly for a prescription price quote.

Clients are expected to pay for their medications at the time they are picked up.  Therefore, there will be no charging of medications "on account".

Vision Fees

Optometry fees are as follows:  For all clients, Indian beneficiaries and non-Indian clients, one-half of the estimated fees are required if the client does not have insurance coverage (this deposit is required before eyewear can be ordered).  The balance of the estimated fees is due at the time the eyewear is fitted.

In addition, non-Indian clients must pay: $75.00 eye exam charge; $25.00 service charge for ordering and the cost of the frames with lenses.

Other Fees

As the services of the facility changes, fees may be assigned for certain types of care that is rendered.  As a client you will be informed of these changes before services are rendered upon request.

In addition, clients participating in clinic sponsored activities may be charged participation fees.  The staff or section sponsoring the event will have information available.

How to make Appointments:

Clients are encouraged to call or stop by the clinic to schedule an appointment.  Our receptionist can assist you in selecting an appropriate date, time, and provider for your needs.

Late Arrivals:

Clients that are more than ten (10) minutes late for thier scheduled appointment may be charged with a missed appointment and their appointment may have to be rescheduled.  Re-scheduling of client appointments are based on the appointment schedule and the availability of the provider.

 Checking in for Services:

You are required to arrive 15-30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time to allow patient registration and/or reception staff to update your insurance and personal information.

Parking:

Handicapped parking spaces are painted with BLUE paint and signs are posted.  Any visitor parking in these areas shall have a handicap parking decal posted on or in the vehicle.  Client parking spaces are located at the main entrances at each clinic site.

CHS Eligibility Requirements

UIHS clients must meet certain eligibility requirements in order to participate in the CHS program:

• Clients must be registered at UIHS as an "Eligible Indian Beneficiary" (EIB) and must be a resident of one of the nine federally recognized Indian reservations within the UIHS Service Area; or
• Clients must be registered at UIHS as an EIB and must be a resident of the  UIHS Service Area and be "an enrolled member" of a federally recognized California Indian Tribe; or "an enrolled member" of a Tribe within the UIHS Service Area currently seeking federal recognition; or
• Clients must be registered at UIHS as an EIB and must be a resident of the UIHS Service Area and be married to, or a child of a person who is "an enrolled member" of a federally recognized California Indian Tribe; or "an enrolled member" of a Tribe within the  UIHS Service Area currently seeking federal recognition; or
• Client must be registered at UIHS as an EIB and must be a resident of the UIHS Service Area and be a "regular full-time" employee of one of the nine federally recognized Indian tribes or their tribal organizations.

Screening for Alternative Resources

The UIHS CHS program is the "payer of last resort."  Therefore, in order for CHS to be used, the client requesting the CHS assistance will be screened to determine if there are other possible sources of payment such as private insurance, Medi-Cal, Medicare, etc.  The ability of the client to pay for the outside service is not considered in the screening.  If another source of payment is available, they must be utilized before CHS can be used.  If the client chooses not to participate in the screening process, or chooses not to apply for alternate resources they are found eligible for, CHS assistance will be denied. 

Utilization of Outside Services

CHS assistance is only available for referrals made by UIHS providers or in the event of emergency care.

• A "General Referral" is a UIHS referral for non-urgent outside services.  This type of service can be delayed until the CHS eligibility screening process is completed.  Therefore, prior authorization for CHS assistance is required for all general referrals.  Clients must contact the CHS office prior to utilizing the outside service.
• An "Urgent Referral" is a UIHS referral for urgent outside services which cannot wait for the outcomme of the eligiblity screening process.  Since prior authorization for CHS assistance is not feasible, the client remains responsible for payment of the bill for such services unless CHS authorization is obtained.  Clients must contact the CHS office within 3 working days of utilizing the outside services.
• "Emergency Cases" require immediate attention without a referral from a UIHS provider.  When this occurs, the client remains responsible for payment of the bill for such services unless CHS authorization is obtained.  Clients must contact our CHS office within 3 working days of utilizing the outside service  (exception: 30 days if you are disabled or 65  years of age or older).

Covered Services

The UIHS CHS program operates within a system developed from federal guidelines, medical staff consultation, and approved by the UIHS Board of Directors.  It is important to note that not all outside services are within the UIHS list of "Covered Services." At the current time, out CHS program covered services include the following:

• Priority Level I - Care that must be done within 30 days to preserve life, limb, function or senses.
• Priority Level II - Non-emergent care that is needed within 30-60 days, but enought time in which alternate resources can be evaluated.
• Priority Level III - Hearing aids, eye glasses, and limited other services that are determined to be medically necessary.

How to Register for Services

Visit or call Patient Registration for specific documentation requirements and to register for services.

• In Humboldt County call Potawot Health Village (707) 825-5000.
• In Del Norte County call Howonquet health Center at (707) 487-0215.

Direct Care Services

Direct Health Care Services are provided to all registered EIB clients. EIB family members are provided services as approved by the Board of Directors:

Medical - We are a family practice made up of Physicians and advanced practice clinicians concerned with the total health care of the individual and the family.  Our scope of family practice encompasses all ages and both sexes.

Vision - Vision services located at Potawot Health Village include an Opththalmologist who provided eye exams, retinal scans, glasses, referralls and limited ophthalmology services.

Dental - We are a general practice made of Dentists and Mid-Level Practitioners who provide evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and/or treatment of dental diseases, and/or conditions.  Our scope of general practice encompasses all ages.

Nutrition - Nutrition services include Registered Dietitians, Nutritionists and Women, Infants and Children (WIC), program nutrition assistants who provide education and counseling for all clients with nutrition related health problems, pregnant and postpartum women and children.

Behavioral Health - Behavioral Health Services include Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselors who provide mental health and substance abuse counseling prevention, intervention, treatment, referral, community activities and psychiatric services.

Community Health - Community Health services included health promotion and education, diabetes awareness, community and youth activities, individual exercise prevention, United Way food program, and traditional healers.

Pharmacy Services - Pharmacy services are provided by Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians who provide prescription medications, along with client education, consultation and drug information.

Administration Services - Administration services are provided by organization support staff which includes General Accounting, Client Accounting, Quality Improvement, and Client Records.

Structure of the Board of Directors

United Indian Health Services, Inc.
Board of Directors

Indian Community Representatives

• Area I - In and Around Del Norte County
• Area II - In and around Orick, Trinidad, McKinleyville, and Blue Lake (North of Mad River)
• Area III - In and around Arcata, Eureka, and all points south to the Humboldt-Mendocino County Line
• Area IV - In and around Hoopa - Willow Creek
• Area V - In and around Johnson (Pecwan), Weitchpec and Orleans

Mission Statement

To work together with our clients and community to achieve wellness through health services that reflects the traditional values of our
American Indian community.

Vision Statement

Guiding Principles:

 Direct Care Services are, but are not limited to:

• Medical Services
• Vision Services
• Dental Services
• Nutrition Services
• Behavioral Health Services
• Community Health Care Services
• Pharmacy Services
• Administration Service

Help Us Improve Our Services

United Indian Health Services (UIHS)
is dedicated to providing health care
of the highest quality to our clients.

Your opinion of our services is necessary to achieve this quality; therefore we have been conducting Client Satisfaction Surveys every month to know how you feel about the services we provide, so we can make sure we are meeting your needs.

This supports the organization’s Strategic Plan to “provide excellent culturally sensitive customer service.” Your responses will be kept confidential and anonymous. Our Client Satisfaction Survey may be handed to you the next time you visit UIHS.   

Please take a moment to let us know how we are doing. Your participation is needed to help us improve our services.

Should you have any questions about the survey please do not hesitate to contact
Dr. Ira Singh at (707) 825-5000.

Client Complaint Form

Health Promotion and Education - Overview 

HPE works collaboratively with American Indian community members through our Board of Directors, CORE Coalition, and TAG to develop creative, innovative, culturally appropriate, and cost effective interventions that result in individual, tribal, community and social norm changes. HPE programs build upon the strengths of the individual and community. Our focus is to empower individuals, families, tribes, and the community to make healthy choices based on sound information and education in order to achieve the organization’s vision “Health mind, body and spirit for generations of our American Indian Community.”

The following WIC Program Newsletters are available for your convienence:

March 2012

To better serve our clients, the UIHS Pharmacy is introducing another option when refilling your prescriptions.  In addition to the automated refill line, you can now refill your prescriptions online.

This site is still under construction  - - -  Coming Soon - - -

 Online Prescription Refills

Access to Service
The provision of UIHS health services will be made in a timely manner. When UIHS does not offer a service you need, we will provide you with the name(s) and telephone number(s) of a provider(s) who offer(s) thte service needed.
 

Confidentiality and Privacy
UIHS services will be provided in a totally private and confidential manner.   Information in your health or related records will be made available to you upon your request. Information contained in your records will only be released to outside organizations or individuals after UIHS receives your written permission, a court order, or statute that requires the release of information.
 

Client Treatment Decisions and Education
Treatment plans will be jointly developed by your or a legally authorized representative and your provider. Development of a future plan will include consideration of treatment alternatives known to your provider.  

Your provider will not commence treatment without your informed consent or the consent of a legally authorized representative. You always have the right to refuse treatment or seek a second opinion. We shall inform you of any research or educational information regarding your health condition(s), medication(s), and treatment(s).

Educational information will be presented to you in understandable language.
 

Staff Identification
Providers and others will make their names known to you through personal introductions and name tags.
 

Staff Sensitivity
We will conduct ourselves courteously at all times.  We will respect your cultural and spiritual values and we will be guided by your ethical concerns and decisions.

Formal Complaint Form

We are required by applicable federal and state law to maintain the privacy of your health information.  

We are also required to give you this Notice about the use and disclosure of your health information (1), our legal responsibilities (2), and your rights concerning your health information (3).

We use and disclose health information about you for your treatment, payment and health care operations.

We may use and disclose your information to a physician or other health care provider providing treament to you.  We may use your health information to provide you with appointment reminders and treatment alternatives. 

• Coast Indian Community of the Resighini Rancheria, Klamath CA and surrounding areas.
• Smith River Rancheria, Smith River CA and Highway 101 corridor south to Crescent City and Elk Valley. 

The Community Nutrition Program at United Indian Health Services is a Local Incentive Awardee of the Network for a Healthy California, a statewide movement of local, state and national partners collectively working toward improving the health status of low-income Californians through increased fruit and vegtable consumption and daily physical activity.  Funding for the Network is made possible by in-kind contributions from state and local governments and financial reimbursement from the USDA Food Stamp  Program.

Mission:

To safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutrition risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating, and referrals to health care.

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Supplemental Nutrition Program is a federally-funded health and nutrition program for:

• Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or just had a baby
• Children under 5 years old (including foster children)
• Families with low to medium income (working families may qualify)

In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, WIC is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.