CIHA Expands Cardiology Services to Improve Local Access to Heart Health Care

Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) has taken a significant step forward in expanding specialty care by bringing more cardiology services in-house. Thanks to a continued partnership with Asheville Cardiology Associates, patients have improved access to essential heart health screenings and evaluations—right here at home.   In summer 2023, CIHA launched an on-site cardiology clinic with … Continued

CIHA Expands CNA Certification Program After Successful First Cohort

Following the successful completion of the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority’s (CIHA) inaugural Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification program in the Spring of 2024, CIHA is excited to announce that two new cohorts have officially begun training this week. Building on the momentum of the first program, this expansion will allow both cohorts to run simultaneously … Continued

CIHA Rehabilitation manager reflects on tenure as Manager

Three years ago, Jennifer Thompson, enrolled member of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians from the Yellowhill community, stepped into the role of Rehabilitation Services Manager at Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA). Jennifer’s transition to Manager of the department aligned with unprecedented growth in the department that she continues to juggle with innovation and … Continued

CIHA welcomes Nurse Practitioner Gwen Abdulafid to CIHA’s Gastroenterology Specialty Clinic

Access to timely, high-quality specialty care continues to grow at Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA). This summer, we’re making significant progress toward our goal of increasing access to locally available specialty care in one our most in-demand areas: Gastroenterology (GI).   With 157 pending consults and 186 patients already scheduled, the demand for GI care … Continued

Expanding Access to Infusion Therapy at CIHA

Specialty care at Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) isn’t just about diagnosis—it’s about long-term, ongoing treatment that helps patients manage complex conditions and avoid hospitalization. Nowhere is that more evident than in CIHA’s infusion therapy program, which has quietly become one of the most impactful services in the hospital.   “The progress and increased access … Continued

Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority Welcomes Michelle Tenhengel-deVille as New Administrator of Tsali Care Center

Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) is proud to announce Michelle Tenhengel-deVille as the facility’s new Administrator. With an impressive background in nursing leadership and executive healthcare management, Michelle brings a wealth of experience, vision, and compassion to this vital role in our community.   Michelle stepped into the role of Administrator in April 2025 after … Continued

CIHA’s new Occupational Therapy Services provide access to care for patients with Arthritis

May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, bringing attention to one of the most common chronic health conditions affecting adults in the United States. For many, arthritis can make everyday activities—like getting dressed, cooking, or even holding a cup—more difficult and sometimes painful. While there is no cure, there are ways to manage symptoms and maintain … Continued

Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority celebrates National Student Nurse Day with Spring class of WCU students course completion

Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) recently celebrated another group of Western Carolina University (WCU) nursing students who completed their 12-week clinical rotation at the hospital as part of their NUR 321 coursework.   Each semester, CIHA welcomes 20 WCU second-semester nursing students, divided into two groups, to complete a robust rotation through several departments. During … Continued

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