You Have a New Voice - Introducing Your NACHR Newsletter!

Welcome to the first issue of the NACHR newsletter! The NACHR board is pleased and proud to be distributing this new communication tool to all of you who are out in your communities making a difference.

At our recent Triennial Conference, there were many comments about the strength and relevance of the CHR program. Though the programs have changed and each program is unique, there is an overriding theme of delivering compassionate care to our people and our communities.

Through the pages of this newsletter our goal is to offer a portal of communication from CHRs to their Tribes, to the Federal government, and especially to each other. As you will see in this issue’s letter from NACHR President Cynthia Norris, it is important that you speak out about your success stories and best practices so others may learn from your experience. This is the forum for you to do just that. We look forward to the time when our eight pages are bursting with content from CHRs who want to share their ideas, questions, successes and even disappointments with their colleagues throughout the land.

In this issue, we’ll recap the Triennial Conference, focusing especially on the new initiatives made at the national level to improve reporting and documentation. You know you’re out there working hard for your people, but as Dr. Grim reminded us in his keynote speech at the Triennial, “if it didn’t get written it didn’t get done.” Better methods of documenting and coding are a huge step forward in getting the recognition and funding for CHRs that is so richly deserved.

We’ll also be talking about preparation for the influenza season, and a looming pandemic. Even if your Tribe prohibits this kind of advanced planning, there are ways you can prepare. Our CHR profile feature focuses on Winey West from the Creek Nation in Oklahoma. You will be inspired by her story of selflessness and compassionate care.

We hope it’s all “News You Can Use” for CHRs. Welcome and enjoy!

As the headline says: "You have a new voice," and we want to hear it! Please let us know what you think--good or bad, about this first issue through the link on our website, www.nachr.net. You can also email comments to feedback@nachr.net.