Akicita Federal is hiring a Dentist to deliver comprehensive outpatient dental care to American Indian and Alaska Native patients served by the Indian Health Service (IHS) Navajo Area at the Tohatchi Health Center in Tohatchi, NM. This is a meaningful opportunity to address a critical shortage of dental providers in a rural, underserved community located approximately 25 miles north of Gallup, serving roughly 8,000 nearby residents. You will be part of a multidisciplinary care team at one of the newest outpatient facilities operated by the Navajo Area Indian Health Service.
- Provide direct outpatient dental services to IHS patients presenting for treatment at Tohatchi Health Center across an 8-hour workday (8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday)
- Diagnose and treat a broad range of dental conditions for a diverse patient population that includes pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients
- Document patient encounters, treatment plans, and outcomes accurately within IHS information systems in compliance with HIPAA standards
- Coordinate referrals and collaborate with consultant staff from Gallup Indian Medical Center (GIMC) for cases requiring specialty or inpatient services
- Maintain clinical privileges and adhere to credentialing requirements established by the Gallup Service Unit Credentialing Committee
- Follow IHS Service Unit policies, Joint Commission standards, and CMS guidelines to ensure high-quality, safe patient care
- Engage with patients and staff in a culturally respectful manner consistent with the values and practices of the Navajo Nation community
$395,200 - $395,200 a year
- Doctoral degree from an accredited dental school (DDS or DMD)
- Active, valid state dental license with a clearly indicated expiration date
- Active DEA Registration and Controlled Substance license
- Valid National Provider Identifier (NPI)
- Ability to obtain and maintain clinical privileges through the Gallup Service Unit Credentialing Committee prior to beginning work
- Completion of required IHS credentialing documentation, including application for medical staff appointment, privileges request, NPDB query, and Medicare/Medicaid acknowledgement
- Proficiency with electronic health record and IHS information technology systems
- Ability to pass a federal background check in accordance with the Crime Control Act and Indian Child and Family Violence Act requirements
What sets candidates apart:
- Board certification in a dental specialty relevant to outpatient primary dental care
- Prior experience providing dental services in a federal, tribal, or IHS-operated health facility
- Familiarity with the Navajo Nation, its culture, and the unique health needs of its community members
- Experience working in rural or frontier healthcare settings with limited specialist backup
- Completion of a dental residency program, particularly in general dentistry or a related discipline