At Ellsworth, our mission is to empower Native American communities by connecting outstanding healthcare professionals with the Indian Health Service. This Black History Month, we proudly honor a group of remarkable figures whose lives and legacies advanced medicine and enriched tribal health, resulting in improved care for Indigenous communities across the nation.
These five historic figures overcame obstacles in their fields, blending innovative medical practice with a deep commitment to underserved populations. Their stories inspire us to work tirelessly toward a future where quality healthcare is accessible to every community.
Dr. Moses Alfred Haynes (1921–2016)
Born in the Caribbean, Dr. Moses Alfred Haynes dedicated his life to transforming healthcare for underserved communities. In the mid-1950s, he answered a call to serve at the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation in South Dakota—an experience that ignited his lifelong commitment to improving Native American healthcare. Under his visionary leadership, emergency medical services were revamped, children received regular screenings and immunizations, and comprehensive public health initiatives were set in motion. Dr. Haynes’ work bridged gaps in care and inspired generations of medical professionals dedicated to reducing disparities and ensuring fairer access to health services.
Prentiss Harrison, PA (1943-2018)
As the nation’s first African-American physician assistant, Prentiss Harrison set a precedent for healthcare professionals of color. His early work at Duke University Hospital and subsequent leadership in establishing rural health clinics created a foundation for accessible care in historically underserved areas. Notably, Harrison extended his expertise to the Fort Berthold Sioux Indian Reservation in North Dakota, where he provided essential primary care to Native American communities. His legacy lives on in the many healthcare professionals who follow in his footsteps, ensuring that the dream of quality, culturally aware care continues to thrive.
Dr. May Chinn (1896–1980)
Dr. May Chinn’s journey is a story of resilience, innovation, and a deep commitment to service. With roots that connect her to the Chickahominy Indian Reservation through her mother, Dr. Chinn’s personal heritage fueled her passion for breaking down barriers in medicine. As Harlem’s first woman physician dedicated to cancer research, she led early efforts in cancer detection and treatment—efforts that paved the way for countless life-saving initiatives. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Chinn tirelessly championed civil rights, ensuring that all communities, regardless of background, had access to quality healthcare and opportunities for academic excellence.
Dr. Bernard Harris, MD, MBA – Astronaut & Physician (b. 1956)
Dr. Bernard Harris’s extraordinary journey from the Navajo Nation to the far reaches of space is nothing short of inspirational. Growing up on the Navajo Nation instilled in him a profound respect for Indigenous culture—a value he proudly carried with him into his historic role as the first African-American astronaut to walk in space. On February 9, 1995, during a spacewalk on the shuttle Discovery, Dr. Harris carried the dreams of millions along with the spirit of his Native American heritage. His remarkable achievements remind us that the sky is not the limit when passion, determination, and purpose unite.
Dr. Sonya Sloan, MD – Orthopedic Surgeon & Locum Tenens Leader
Dr. Sonya Sloan has redefined what it means to balance a groundbreaking medical career with a commitment to family and community. As one of the first African-American female orthopedic surgeons—and the first in her specialty to serve on the Navajo reservation in New Mexico—Dr. Sloan has become a trusted healthcare provider for multi-generational families. Working closely with the Indian Health Service, she delivers culturally aware care that honors the traditions and needs of Native communities. Her innovative approach as a locum tenens physician highlights a growing movement among modern healthcare professionals to create a sustainable work–life balance without compromising quality care for those who need it most.
Honoring a Legacy That Inspires
While we have highlighted these five exceptional figures, they are among the many heroes whose legacies continue to shape Indigenous healthcare. Their lives demonstrate that perseverance, education, and cultural pride are the keys to transforming healthcare systems and improving outcomes for Indigenous communities.
At Ellsworth, we celebrate their contributions and carry forward their vision every day. As we mark Black History Month, let us be inspired by their unwavering commitment to improving tribal health and dedicated service to Indigenous communities. Their stories remind us that when we honor our history and embrace our diverse heritage, we can build a future where every community thrives.
Join us in celebrating these leaders and the many unsung heroes whose work lights the way toward a healthier, more aware tomorrow. To join Ellsworth LLC’s locum tenens services, medical staffing solutions, and current job placement opportunities, create a free profile at:
Create your free profile. We look forward to helping you embark on a rewarding and adventurous career. Ellsworth LLC is proud to confirm its eligibility under the Buy-Indian set-aside ISBEE (UEI: E84NXMLHLMS5) and operates under NAICS Codes 561320 — Temporary Help Services and 621111 — Offices of Physicians, except Mental Health Specialists. Our business model and services are designed to meet these specific requirements, and our partnership with LiquidAgents Healthcare, LLC and StaffingEngine, LLC supports us. With over 22 years of combined recruiting expertise, we ensure culturally competent staffing solutions that meet the needs of healthcare professionals and organizations alike.
