Indian Health Services Program

[DentalFlossie]

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Hi all,
The Indian Health Services Program is something I'm rather interested in doing, and ANY input on the program would be very much appreciated. Is anyone here currently in the program or applying to it?
I've read through the IHS website already, but was wondering a few things, in particular: how competitive it is to get into (is it contingent upon grades?, etc), how many years do people usually end up working at a location, are you able to have any say in where you end up? But really any input is helpful.
Thanks!

 

[TKD]

Hi all,
The Indian Health Services Program is something I'm rather interested in doing, and ANY input on the program would be very much appreciated. Is anyone here currently in the program or applying to it?
I've read through the IHS website already, but was wondering a few things, in particular: how competitive it is to get into (is it contingent upon grades?, etc), how many years do people usually end up working at a location, are you able to have any say in where you end up? But really any input is helpful.
Thanks!

I've heard it's not too competitive to get into. Regarding how many years, it depends on where your interests are. For those interested in treating underserved populations, you'll find it especially satisfying. You'll get lots of experience in restorative and endo especially, and have a chance to educate the community (dental IQ). IHS makes it a little more lucrative by being a federal qualified health center, so you'll be eligible for loan repayment + benefits. My buddy who did it loved it so much (4+ years) he's still in IHS and pursuing a public health doctorate degree part-time. He had a say in the location (choose Arizona, had 5-6 options). But if you're into cosmetics, ortho, bridges etc. long-term it's not for you obviously.