News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, May 17, 2007

Contact: HHS Press Office
(202) 690-6343

Statement by Mike Leavitt Secretary of Health and Human Services Regarding the Reappointment of Dr. Charles Grim

I applaud the President’s decision to reappoint Dr. Charles Grim as the Director of the Indian Health Service (IHS). Dr. Grim has served a distinguished record as Assistant Surgeon General and as a Rear Admiral in the Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Services (USPHS). His service to the IHS dates back to 1983, when he joined the Indian Health Service.

Since becoming IHS director in 2003, Dr. Grim provided critical leadership in our efforts to improve the health and well-being of American Indians and Alaskan Natives through an increased emphasis on prevention, effective use of health information technology, and support for principles of self-determination and self-governance. I appreciate Dr. Grim’s continued service and leadership in this valuable post and I call on the Senate to act quickly to reconfirm him.

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Last revised: January 12, 2009