On June 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tsali Care Center partnered with local emergency personnel to conduct a full-scale disaster drill on-site at the facility. The exercise was designed to evaluate emergency response procedures and improve coordination among staff and first responders, as part of federal preparedness requirements set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and The Joint Commission.
The drill brought together staff members from Tsali Care Center, the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority, the Cherokee Police Department, Tribal EMS, Cherokee Fire Department, and other key regional emergency response agencies. During the training, they simulated a disaster scenario to test evacuation procedures, communication strategies, and medical transport protocols in real time.
To make the drill as realistic as possible, two Tsali Care Center nurses volunteered to act as patients requiring emergency care. The volunteers were assessed on-site, then transported by ambulance to the Cherokee Indian Hospital Emergency Department, mirroring the response process that would take place during an actual emergency.
“This drill was a success in every sense,” said Michelle Tenghel-deVille, Facility Administrator at Tsali Care Center. “It gave our staff and local responders the chance to practice and refine their response skills in a safe but realistic setting. We’re grateful for the support of our emergency partners and proud of the teamwork displayed throughout the event.”
Felicia Johnson, Nurse Manager in the Cherokee Indian Hospital Emergency Department, echoed that sentiment: “Today, we took our commitment to excellence and preparedness to new heights. Our team didn’t just go through the motions—we used the opportunity to grow, to collaborate, and to test our ability to think on our feet. It was more than just a drill; it was a reflection of the dedication we bring every day to protecting those we serve.”
Bystanders and community members were invited to observe the drill, offering a rare look at the level of planning, training, and collaboration involved in emergency preparedness—especially for facilities serving vulnerable populations like long-term care residents.
The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority remains committed to the safety and well-being of its residents, staff, and the broader Cherokee community. Events like these ensure that when the unexpected happens, our teams are ready to respond—together.