Findings of Whistleblower Retaliation by Indian Health Service Contractor Management

The Special Investigations Branch (SIB) of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Inspector General (OIG), conducted an investigation in response to allegations brought forth by a complainant who worked for a contractor of the Indian Health Service (IHS). The complainant alleged in an OIG Hotline submission that he was removed from his assignment and terminated after he reported licensing deficiencies and patient safety concerns. Investigators found that the complainant made protected disclosures to responsible management officials prior to being terminated and that his termination was retaliatory. The OIG investigative report was provided to the Department and included recommendations for appropriate action.