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Veterinary services bill would improve resources to address rural, Tribal health risks

A U.S. House subcommittee is considering legislation that would expand veterinary public health services in Tribal and rural areas.

Alaskan Congressman and bill sponsor Nick Begich says limited access to veterinary care increases the risk of zoonotic diseases and animal-related injuries in many Tribal communities.

“This is a prevention bill, it protects children, reduces downstream costs to the federal health system, and it honors tribal self-determination,” he says.

Brian Berube with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium says rabies remains a persistent public health challenge across his state.

“Besides sporadic services from non-profit veterinarians, there has never been access to veterinary care in the rural parts of our state,” he shares. “As such, Alaska Native communities and people experience elevated rates of animal-related injury.”

The Veterinary Services to Improve Public Health in Rural Communities Act would authorize the Indian Health Service to fund and provide veterinary resources in areas where zoonotic diseases are a significant risk.

According to the Indian Health Service, the Alaska, Great Plains, Navajo, and Phoenix Areas have the highest number of dog bite-related hospitalizations.

A companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. Senate.

Hear more from the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources’ hearing.