Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Ervin Chavez, San Juan Regional Medical Center Tribal Liaison, Receives National Indian Health Services Direct Service Award
The Direct Service Tribes Advisory Committee (DSTAC) has recently awarded Ervin Chavez one of its Recognition and Appreciation Awards. Chavez has been a governmental and tribal liaison for San Juan Regional Medical Center since 1994; he represents the Navajo Nation, particularly the Shiprock Service Unit, and is dedicated to improving health services for the Navajo people in northwest New Mexico.
As a liaison, Chavez works closely with San Juan Regional Medical Center President and CEO, Rick Wallace, Indian Health Services, and the Navajo and Jicarillia Tribes including their tribal officials. He also works to ensure San Juan Regional Medical Center’s AirCare air ambulance services and emergency medical services can effectively provide care within the Navajo Nation. Upcoming projects include communicating changes from the Affordable Care Act to the Navajo people who chose non-IHS or private healthcare providers.
Award recipients—including 10 national winners—are recognized for their dedicated service and significant contributions to Indian Health Service Direct Service Tribes’ healthcare programs and activities. Chavez has exhibited personal and professional commitment in the delivery of quality healthcare services and programs through exceptional leadership and performance for the benefit of American Indians, tribes, and communities, as established by DSTAC’s award description.
Additional factors that contributed to Chavez’s nomination are his ability to work with governmental agencies as well as state and federal officials to improve the lives of others; specifically, serving as a county commissioner for 16 years, on IHS health boards for 32 years, as Huerfano Chapter President for six years, and Navajo Chapter President at Nageezi for 11 years, for which he just started a new term for 2013-2016.
“I find it most enjoyable to work with San Juan Regional Medical Center and Mr. Wallace,” said Chavez, in reference to his liaison position. “I find my job interesting and something different every day.”
“We extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to Ervin for his continued work and dedication as he bridges an important gap by representing those living in the Navajo Nation with health services they need,” said Wallace. “He is very deserving of this recognition.”