What is the primary role of the Indian Health Service (IHS)?

The primary role of the Indian Health Service (IHS) is to provide health services to Native Americans. Established in 1955, the IHS is a federal agency within the Department of Health and Human Services, designed to ensure comprehensive health care for American Indians and Alaska Natives. It aims to deliver quality health services focused on the specific needs and preferences of tribal communities, addressing issues such as access to care, prevention of diseases, and health promotion.

While offering education and supporting cultural preservation are important aspects of overall community health and well-being, they do not specifically reflect the focused health care mission of the IHS. Similarly, the regulation of Indian casinos falls outside the scope of the IHS's purpose and responsibilities, as it primarily concerns economic development and gaming rights rather than health services. Thus, the central objective of the IHS is clearly centered on providing health services, making this the correct response.