Our Mission, Vision, and Values.

Our Core Purpose

To assure the prosperity of the next seven generations of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Our Mission

Our Mission is to provide accessible, patient and family centered quality healthcare with responsible management of the Tribe’s resources.

Our Vision

Our Vision is to be significant in the lives of Tribal members, chosen for excellence and exceeding customer expectations, recognized for improving the health of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Our Values

Integrity (Honest and Fair)
Excellence (Pursuit of Perfection)
Engagement (Emotional and Intellectual Commitment)
Stewardship
Group Harmony (Professional, Respectful, Supportive, Loyalty, Grace)
Compassion
Accountability

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Our Guiding Principles

Guiding Principle One: U wa shv u da nv te lv

(oo wa shuh oo da nuh tay luh)

“The one who helps you from the heart”

Cherokees have been misled and mistreated over the centuries by opportunists disguised as well-meaning subject matter experts. For this reason, to be effective in this community requires genuine, evident commitment to the best interest of the community.

“This community doesn’t care what you know until it knows you care”

CIHA believes that care and service delivered most effectively is delivered from the heart.

Guiding Principle Two: To hi

(toe hee)

“A state of peace and balance”

Cherokee believe that all things endeavor to achieve this ultimate state of peace where all things are in balance and as they should be.

CIHA believes “to hi” can only be achieved through healthy relationships and is fundamental to living healthy lives.

Guiding Principle Three: Ni hi tsa tse li

(nee hee zah zay lee or nee hee ja jay lee)

“it belongs to you”

Cherokee, like most Native American tribes, enjoy the first pre-purchased healthcare in this country. Healthcare was purchased by ancestors through treaties with the United States, as recompense for the atrocities that resulted from horrific “Indian Policy” in this country.

CIHA believes that all health care services belong to the people and CIHA is a steward of their inheritance charged with safe guarding it and providing it to them when and how they need it.

Guiding Principle Four: di qwa tse li i yu s di

(dee gwa jay lee ee you sdee)

“Like family to me” “He, she, they, are like my own family”

CIHA is committed to being the healthcare partner of choice for this community and enjoying the relationships found in healthy families.