Southern Indian Health Council
Mission:
Southern Indian Health Council is a Native American organization committed to protecting and improving the physical, mental, and spiritual health of our American Indian community. We provide a comprehensive range of wellness, professional health care, dental, and social services.
Website: http://www.sihc.org
SIHC History
Southern Indian Health Council began as a satellite operation of the Indian Health Council in Pauma Valley. In the beginning, we operated out of trailers on the Sycuan reservation, offering outreach and referral services to southern San Diego tribes. In November, 1982, we incorporated as a nonprofit, public benefit corporation, and moved to the Barona reservation shortly thereafter. At Barona, we provided limited medical and dental services as an extension of the Barona House.
In late 1987, our Board of Directors acquired private land in Alpine, which was placed into “federal trust.” That land is the site of our present location. To begin building a permanent facility, SIHC secured several grants through HUD (Housing & Urban Development). Our initial operation revenue came through the Indian Health Service – under the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act (Public Law 93 – 638).
SIHC has undergone tremendous growth over the years. Today, we serve a seven-member tribal consortium which includes Barona, Campo, Ewiiaapaayp, Jamul, La Posta, Manzanita, and Viejas. We are an accredited and Federally Qualified Health Center operating out of a modern facility set on 10 acres of pristine countryside. With its Southwestern architectural motif, our spacious, handicap-accessible facility features ample parking and easy access from major freeways and bus routes. SIHC has a diversified funding base and provides a full spectrum of programs and services supported by Federal, State, and local dollars.