By Michael Woestehoff, Founder & CEO, Ellsworth LLC
As a Native-owned healthcare staffing company working directly with the Indian Health Service (IHS) and tribal health systems, we know that real partnership means showing up. That’s why I recently traveled across key service areas in New Mexico and Arizona to visit with IHS procurement offices, acquisition teams, and public health professionals on the ground.
This trip was more than a check-in—it was my commitment to listening, learning, and improving how we deliver healthcare solutions to our Native communities – OUR RELATIVES.
A Quick Video Message
Originally, I recorded this short video recap to share exclusively with our contract officers through a curated newsletter. But I realized this trip—and the passion behind it—should be shared more broadly. So I decided to make the video public.
Please take a moment to watch it. It’s a two-minute field update from Shiprock to Chinle to Albuquerque that captures the spirit of this journey and the reason why this work matters.
Watch the full video recap here: Field Visit Recap and Reflections
First Stop: Albuquerque Health Service Procurement Office
My first stop was at the Albuquerque Area Indian Health Service procurement office. Meeting their team lead in person was a valuable opportunity to hear direct feedback on our continued response to proposals. The conversation reaffirmed that responsive, well-structured submissions from Native contractors like Ellsworth make a difference. We remain focused on compliance, speed, and high-quality service—because lives depend on it.
Next: Delivery to the Shiprock Marathon and Visiting the Shiprock IHS Unit
From Albuquerque, I drove north to Shiprock to retrieve reusable insulated totes that Ellsworth donated to the Shiprock Marathon. It was uplifting to see them well received by the community.
While in the area, I visited the Shiprock Service Unit (SRSU)—the largest geographical service unit of the Navajo Area Indian Health Service (NAIHS). The SRSU spans New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah, with administrative oversight of one hospital (Northern Navajo Medical Center) and two health centers (Four Corners Regional Health Center and Dzilth-Na-O-Dith-Hle Health Center).
These facilities are massive in both scope and impact. Conversations with staff highlighted the importance of formatting responses to RFPs in ways that align with their internal workflows. These insights will help us refine our proposals to meet their needs even more effectively.
Chinle Health Center – The Heart of Navajo
Next, I visited Chinle Health Center, where I met with acquisition and health department staff. One incredible woman—who handles nearly every aspect of procurement and logistics on her own—truly inspired me. Her tireless dedication is a reminder that many of our tribal facilities are operating with limited staff, and why we must respond quickly, respectfully, and with full support as a staffing partner.
Last Stop – Gallup, New Mexico IHS
Before heading back to Washington, DC, I made a quick stop in Gallup to drop off additional supplies. Although I didn’t get to meet with anyone this time, I look forward to returning soon to continue building relationships there.
Ellsworth Native Medical Staffing Updates You Shouldn’t Miss
While you’re here, don’t miss two new blog posts offering deeper insight into our growth and approach to tribal healthcare partnerships:
Ellsworth LLC Surpasses $3 Million in Native American Healthcare Contracts
Discover how our contract wins are creating lasting value in tribal communities—and how we’re preparing for sustainable growth.
Partnering Better with IHS Regions and 638 Tribal Health Systems
Whether you’re a contract officer, HR director, or clinical recruiter in a self-determined Tribal system, we help you hire qualified, culturally competent healthcare professionals.
Partner with Ellsworth LLC: Trusted Native-Owned Medical Staffing for Indian Health Service Hospitals – Ellsworth, LLC
Our mission is simple: Reduce your workload, save you time, and help you meet your placement goals with zero hassle.
Supporting Public Health in Indian Country
As we mark Public Health Awareness Month and Medical Professionals Week, this trip was a timely reminder that our greatest asset is our people. The passionate, hardworking professionals serving their own communities are the backbone of our healthcare system—and it’s our job to support them.
To everyone I met on this trip: thank you. To those I haven’t met yet—I look forward to connecting. Together, we’re improving public health in Indian Country, one step at a time.
To join Ellsworth LLC’s locum tenens services, medical staffing solutions, and current job placement opportunities, create a free profile at:
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.
