Tribal Consultations

The NIH, through the THRO, holds Tribal consultations at least once-per-year, to ensure meaningful and timely input by Indian Tribes in the development of NIH policies that have Tribal implications, as established through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Tribal Consultation Policy (TCP). A consultation occurs when HHS, NIH, or an Indian Tribe identifies an NIH action with substantial direct effects for one or more Indian Tribes. Goals of the TCP include eliminating health and human service disparities of Indians and maximizing their access to health and human services.

THRO ensures that the NIH adheres to the TCP and follows the NIH Guidance on the Implementation of the HHS Tribal Consultation Policy. Since it’s establishment in 2015, THRO has held yearly tribal consultations for input on NIH initiatives that are of interest to American Indians and Alaskan Natives. Consultations may be held on issues of NIH proposed research projects, priorities and other activities. THRO prepares summaries of each consultation, may solicit public comments, tracks follow-ups, and reports outcomes.