We have to be serious about fixing this problem. If we are serious about fixing this problem, we are going to be serious about funding the fix.

I like your giving those concrete examples. That is very helpful.

The point I am trying to make is that you all work under the same umbrella.

It is a travesty! Further, it is a problem that will continue to have negative impacts for generations to come.

This is not about politics; everyone on this dais knows that.

Although histories, cultures, and languages may be diverse, one theme was always consistent--the challenges of accessing healthcare and life-saving services.

I know that everyone sitting at this table has a passionate desire to fix these problems.

People's lives are at risk.

This is not happening.

The Indian Health Service has failed their patients.

What you and members of this Committee can do and will do by putting the spotlight on this spot will save lives.

I spent much of my time as Chairman of this committee focused on increasing funding for the IHS and trying to force some systemic changes in the bureaucracy that plagues that agency.

We need and the people in the Great Plains need, concrete results.

Senator Byron Dorgan's 68-page Report of 2010 addressing the critical conditions of all the Great Plain's Regional IHS was brought to the attention of McSwain.

I have great confidence in Mary Wakefield.

You are going to save and improve lives.

The status quo will not be tolerated.

I would like to thank him for being here and for his commitment on behalf of Native Americans.