Indian Health Services for New Grads

Nurses New Nurse

Published

Specializes in public health.

I am a new grad and looking for jobs in the IHS. I have googled this website and also USAJOBS, but didn't see anything specific for new grads. Most jobs I saw on USAJOBS require experience. Can I still apply?

I would like some inputs from someone who got his/her first job with the IHS.

Where did you find your job and how do you like it?

Thanks!

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Specializes in CCM, PHN.

Have you looked on the IHS website?

Why do you want to work for the IHS?

I took an IHS scholarship and worked for them for 4 years. WORST experience ever. It ruined me financially, made me hate nursing and broke my spirit. It's a backward and corrupt government agency that runs an archaic health care system that is underfunded, outmoded, and mostly exists in extremely poverty-stricken rural areas. The jobs are low pay, high stress and very, very depressing and understaffed.

Keep in mind they practice preference of hiring Native candidates first. And they have a ready-made pool of candidates from the scholarship obligation program they are required to hire from by law.

I cannot imagine why anyone would want to work for this agency unless they are obligated to by contract. If you are a non-Native person who just wants to "help the poor Indians" you won't last 5 minutes in an interview or on one of these reservations. Trust me on that.

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Specializes in ER.

What reservations did you work at? I am looking at Oklahoma.

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