The American Indian Health Service (AIHS) is a component of the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare's Health Services and Mental Health Administration. AIHS is responsible to 422,000 Indians belonging to more than 250 tribes and 53,000 Indians living in 300 Alaskan villages. The goal of the AIHS is to raise the health of the Indian and Alaskan Native people to the highest possible level and assist them in every way possible to achieve a better quality of life. One of the most significant developments over the years has been the increasing involvement of Indians and Alaskan Natives in all phases of their health program and, most especially, in assumptions of leadership roles. The health programs discussed are: (1) the Indian Health Service (organization); (2) the AIHS Comprehensive Health Program (facilities and services); (3) new directions; (4) special programs, e.g., mental health and otitis media; (5) environmental health; (6) training and education, e.g., community health medics, representatives, aides, and dental assistants; (7) progress since 1955; (8) accomplishments; (9) statistical highlights, such as vital events; (10) health facilities (by states); and (11) administrative offices. (FF)