IHS Health Information Technology Modernization Program
Written by Mitchell Thornbrugh, Chief Information Officer and Director of the Office of Information Technology, Indian Health Service in Agency Updates
Date: 08/24/2026
The Indian Health Service (IHS) continues to advance the Health Information Technology (IT) Modernization Program as it prepares to implement PATH EHR, the new IHS electronic health record (EHR) solution. Designed in collaboration with IHS, Tribal, and urban Indian organizations (I/T/UIOs), PATH EHR aims to support more connected, efficient, and patient-centered care.
In 2026, IHS reached several major milestones that reflect the dedication and collaboration of teams across the organization. IHS completed key baseline checkpoints for system design and configuration, an important step in building PATH EHR to meet the unique needs across Indian Country. Subject matter experts worked through a rigorous review process to validate decisions, refine system designs, and configure PATH EHR to support safe and high-quality care.
Lawton Service Unit, in partnership with IHS, is making significant progress as the PATH EHR pilot site. As the first site to implement PATH EHR, Lawton will help validate the implementation approach and guide future deployments. Successful implementation is more than deploying new technology. It requires preparing people, strengthening processes, and building organizational readiness. The PATH Team is working alongside Lawton leadership and staff to provide hands-on support, align priorities, and prepare the site for PATH EHR go-live in fall 2026. Lawton staff are actively preparing for go-live through training activities, readiness support, and workflow planning.
A strong network of Super Users and Change Advocates is another important part of the readiness effort. These individuals receive specialized training and hands-on experience so they can support their peers before, during, and after go-live. Their leadership will help answer questions, reinforce new workflows, and encourage PATH EHR adoption across Lawton Hospital, Anadarko Indian Health Center, and Carnegie Indian Health Center.
The insights Lawton gains as the pilot site will shape future PATH EHR implementations across I/T/UIOs. The PATH Team will apply feedback and lessons learned to strengthen implementation strategies, refine readiness activities, and establish a repeatable process that helps future sites prepare for implementation.
Modernizing health care goes beyond technology implementation. It represents an organizational transformation that requires collaboration, commitment, and a shared vision across the IHS. Through the continued partnership with I/T/UIOs and the dedication of teams like Lawton Service Unit, we are building a foundation for the future of health care delivery across Indian Country. PATH EHR will create a more connected environment where providers have the information they need, sites collaborate effectively, and patients experience a continuous standard of care. Each milestone moves us closer to a modern, integrated health IT system that strengthens our workforce, supports our communities, and advances the mission of IHS.