The Northwest Tribes have long recognized the need to exercise control over the design and development of health care delivery systems in their local communities. To this end, they formed the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board (also referred to as NPAIHB or “the Board”) in 1972.

Guided by a vision of “Health and Wellness for the Seventh Generation,” NPAIHB is a 501(c)3 designated (non-profit) organization and Tribal organization, P.L. 93-638, under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (ISDEAA) serving the 43 federally recognized Tribes in the states of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington (Northwest Tribes). Tribes become voting members of the Board through resolutions passed by their governing body. Each member Tribe designates a delegate to serve on the NPAIHB Board of Directors.

Led by our Board of Directors, NPAIHB’s mission is to “eliminate health disparities and improve the quality of life of American Indians and Alaska Natives by supporting Northwest Tribes in their delivery of culturally appropriate, high-quality health programs and services.” We have a staff of over 120 professionals dedicated to advancing Tribal health for the 7th generation in the Pacific Northwest.

Position Summary

The Health Policy Specialist supports the Director of Legal and Government Affairs by having both internal and external organization responsibilities grounded in serving NPAIHB’s 43 member Tribes to further advance the Board’s mission through excellence in federal and state legislative and regulatory tracking, research, technical assistance, and related activities. Additionally, the Health Policy Specialist operates in a fast-paced environment that requires meeting and managing multiple deadlines, and extensive research and writing.

The Health Policy Specialist must have a strong understanding of the Indian health care delivery system, the federal trust relationship with Indian Tribes, and the legal, policy, and political frameworks impacting Indian Tribes. The Indian Health Policy Specialist must be a self-starter who pays close attention to detail. Discretion, good judgment, and the ability to handle confidential information are also required since this position works closely with Northwest Tribal Leaders on issues related to health care and public health in Tribal communities.

The Health Policy Specialist reports to the Director of Legal and Government Affairs. This scope of work is housed within the Executive Division.

This position is based at NPAIHB’s offices in Portland, Oregon. Local travel and/or overnight travel outside of the area is required approximately 50-60% of the time.
 

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