Choctaw Nation Care Teams Earn National Recognition for Advancing Tribal Health and Patient Safety

DURANT, Okla. (May 6, 2026) — Four teams from the Choctaw Nation Health Services Authority (CNHSA) have been honored with the 2024 Director’s Award from the Indian Health Service, recognizing their outstanding contributions to improve the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

The Indian Health Service Director’s Awards recognize individuals and teams across the Indian Health Service, tribal, and urban Indian health systems whose work significantly advances the agency’s mission. Honorees are recognized for expanding access to care, improving quality and patient safety and strengthening health system operations.

The following CNHSA teams received national recognition:

• Choctaw Nation Breast Center Team — cited for transforming patient safety through risk recognition, sustained high-reliability practices and innovation as a Center of Excellence.
• Choctaw Health Services Laboratory Team — cited for unified collaboration advancing health within the Choctaw Nation through coordinated, purpose-driven teamwork and excellence.
• Choctaw Nation Special Diabetes Program for Indians — cited for culturally grounded diabetes prevention and care through the Diabetes Wellness Center and Prevention Program.
• Antlers Community Health Clinic Team — cited for providing innovative, culturally grounded care that expands rural access and builds lasting trust between patients and physicians.

“These teams represent the very best of our mission to serve the Choctaw people,” said Todd Hallmark, executive director of CNHSA. “Their dedication to quality care, patient safety and culturally grounded services strengthens the health of our communities and reflects the commitment our associates bring to serving Choctaw Nation every day.”