Second, national health reform will not dismantle IHS. American Indians and Alaska Natives will continue to have access to their Indian health service facilities.

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The committee was also briefed on a consultation on Shared Services, a policy that included the concentration of "back office" facilities for the health service in a small number of locations.

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Along those lines, last year the National Business Group on Health and food service facilities and management provider Sodexho U.S.A. launched a toolkit to help employers create healthier eating environments and provide nutritious, affordable choices.

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They also predicted an increase in demand for bilingual facilities in education, local authorities and the health service.

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Meanwhile, the U.S. Postal Service said it is checking on the health of employees at three facilities that potentially were exposed to the suspected poison inside mail intended for Mr. Obama and Mr. Wicker.

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The health service also has supplies of emergency breathing equipment, protective equipment and decontamination facilities for staff.

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In addition, health service providers face difficulties in recruiting women with appropriate qualifications to fill midwifery positions in health facilities located in remote and insecure areas.

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