As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on that familiar crispness, we find ourselves transitioning once again—not just into a new season, but into exciting new chapters here at UIHS. Fall has always felt like a time of gathering, preparation for the winter, and reflection on this past year, a time when we honor traditions, express gratitude, welcome change, and take bold steps forward together.

Speaking of bold steps, we are on the final countdown to one of the biggest upgrades in UIHS history—our transition to the Epic electronic health record (EHR) system. This upgrade is not just a change in software; it’s a transformational shift in how we deliver care, connect with our clients, and support our staff.

Epic is widely known for being a powerful, integrated platform that will help streamline our workflows, improve the client experience, and make it easier than ever for our providers and teams to collaborate to provide you with excellent health care. From real-time access to information to smoother client check-ins, this new system is a major leap forward in our goal to offer the highest quality care to our communities.

I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of our staff who have been training, testing, planning, and adjusting behind the scenes to make this transition as seamless as possible. Your dedication is inspiring, and I know that our clients will feel the difference your hard work is making.

To prepare for our Go-Live Day, all UIHS clinics will be closed on Monday, October 20. This Prep Day will give our staff time to make final adjustments to ensure that we’re fully ready to roll out Epic across the organization on Tuesday, October 21. Please help us spread the word to our clients and thank you for your flexibility and understanding as we make this exciting leap.

Fall is also a time of celebration and remembrance. I hope you’ll join us for some of the wonderful upcoming events that bring us together as a UIHS family and community:

We’ll gather at Potawot Health Village on Sunday, November 9, 12:00-2:00 p.m. to honor those who have served with strength, courage, and dedication. This is always a heartfelt time to reflect on our loved ones and ancestors who protected our people and our lands.  All Veterans are invited to attend this honoring.

One of our most joyful traditions returns! Come celebrate Native artistry, culture, and community. Support local vendors, find beautiful handmade gifts, and enjoy time together before the winter holidays.  Booths open at 10:00 a.m. and we will close at 5:00 p.m.

We are remodeling a second building at Rrak Jach, at 4715 Valley East Blvd., Arcata, to expand medical services and offer behavioral health services.  We hope to open in November.  We are still working on the expansion of medical and pharmacy services at Potawot Health Village with a goal of opening late summer/early fall.

As we embrace the season of harvest, I hope you take a moment to look back at this past year and all of the good things that have happened.  I am so grateful for this way of life and serving all of you.

Wishing you a warm, safe, and inspiring Fall season.

With gratitude and respect,

Elizabeth Lara-O’Rourke