About Us

History

The Health Education Program officially began in 1934. Over the decades, it has grown from a disease-focused initiative into a comprehensive, community-centered program.

By 1952, the program expanded to include adult education, child growth and development, economic development, and general community education. A key milestone came in 1955, when Congress allocated dedicated funding to support ongoing expansion.

In 1956, three universities launched field-based training projects specifically designed for American Indian health educators, laying the groundwork for culturally tailored approaches. Early models also included collaboration with Peace Corps volunteers and international development workers.

Today, the program reflects a holistic vision—integrating health promotion with social, educational, and economic development. With strong Congressional support and leadership from the Indian Health Service, the Health Education Program remains committed to empowering communities through education and sustainable health practices.

Services

NHEP aims to improve public health knowledge, change risk behaviors, and reduce health risks through community capacity building. NHEP encourages and supports individuals to make informed health decisions. Through community, school, patient, and worksite outreach efforts, NHEP strives for the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health of every individual.

Qualified Health Educators and Health Education Technicians deliver health education services at health fairs, in-person and virtual presentations, coordinate health promotion events, and administer the Navajo Youth Risk Behavior Survey. HEs and HETs perform rapid HIV testing as certified HIV screeners. Other certification includes Child Passenger Safety Technicians, Mental Health First Aid, Basic Tobacco Intervention Skills, and NIMS ICS.

Protect Yourself, Protect Navajo

An initiative established by Navajo Health Education Program in February of 2024 to lower the number of syphilis and congenital syphilis cases on the Navajo Reservation through education, awareness, and screening.

NHEP developed resources important to educating oneself, partner(s), family, and friends about syphilis, congenital syphilis, other sexually transmitted infections including HIV. In partnership with NN HIV Prevention Program and other Navajo Department of Health programs, Indian Health Service, Tribal Health Organizations, and other state and county partners, we will be hosting Health Expo Events at all major service units across Navajo Nation beginning in May. Community members of all ages and all walks of life are encouraged to attend.

June 21st is declared as Navajo Nation Syphilis Awareness Day

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