Friday, April 4, 2025
4/4/2025
Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program - Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation (TCRHCC) seeks continued funding for its Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program (RESEP) to address the critical health needs of communities affected by radiation exposure. TCRHCC, operating under the Indian Health Service (IHS) P.L. 93-638, Title V Self Governance program, and a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, serves a large and diverse population in Coconino County, Arizona, through its 73-bed hospital and associated clinics. TCRHCC provides a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, dental, behavioral health, and ancillary services, and extends its reach to remote areas via its Federally Qualified Health Center Mobile Health Program. In 2020, TCRHCC was awarded funding to establish RESEP, which has successfully implemented radiation exposure screening and education across the Western Navajo Nation. However, there is still a significant lack of awareness of the RESEP and the effects of radiation throughout the remote service area. Continued funding will enable TCRHCC to enhance program awareness, focusing on education about radiation exposure, early detection, and assisting with Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) claims. TCRHCC proposes to enhance the RESEP program through three key objectives: 1. Redesign Educational Materials and Expand Outreach: TCRHCC will redesign educational materials on radiogenic diseases and reach at least 200 individuals through targeted outreach by the end of the project period. The outreach will include community presentations, advertisements, and participation in events, facilitated by the RESEP Coordinator. Collaborations with TCRHCC's communications office will boost media visibility and engagement, including updated Navajo-language radio ads and digital content. 2. Conduct Radiation Exposure Screenings: Radiation exposure screenings will be conducted for at least 25 at-risk individuals within TCRHCC's service area. Screenings will cover medical and depression assessments, occupational history reviews, physical examinations, and necessary follow-ups. The TCRHCC cancer treatment center, the only one within the Navajo Nation, will host screening clinics and provide comprehensive diagnostic testing and case management. 3. Assist with RECA Claims: TCRHCC will continue to assist eligible community members with RECA claims, ensuring they receive the support needed for compensation. The RESEP Coordinator will lead this effort, coordinating with other RESEP offices and the Department of Justice as needed. Ongoing case management will track patient progress and facilitate necessary referrals for further medical or mental health treatment. By securing continued funding, TCRHCC aims to sustain and expand RESEP, further enhancing its capacity to serve those affected by radiation exposure. This project will not only provide critical health screenings and support but also foster community engagement and education, ultimately improving the health and well-being of the Navajo, Hopi, and San Juan Southern Paiute communities.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).