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 (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
This week, providers at Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) were treated to special luncheon hosted by the Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) in appreciation of their role as preceptors for MAHEC’s medical residents. These providers dedicate time, knowledge, and mentorship to shaping the next generation of doctors—many of whom go on to serve in … Continued
Following the transition from the old Tsali Care Center to its new, state-of-the-art facility last fall, the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) seized the opportunity to invest in the future of healthcare education. Rather than selling off surplus equipment, CIHA Project Manager Christina Panther facilitated the donation of $85,000 worth of medical equipment to area … Continued
Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) proudly participated in the 2025 White Coat Day, hosted by the North Carolina Medical Society (NCMS), one of the state’s largest annual healthcare advocacy events. Representing CIHA and the interests of patients across western North Carolina, Dr. Richard Bunio, CIHA’s Director of Medical Services, joined 65 physicians, physician assistants, … Continued
The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) is excited to share the latest progress on the Cherokee County Clinic project. This week, CIHA Executive Director of Engineering Damon Lambert visited the site for the monthly project meeting with construction leads, architects, and the building crew to review key milestones and upcoming phases of work. Significant … Continued
The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) is proud to announce that Tara Reed-Cooper has officially transitioned into her new role as Associate Director of Career Development within the Human Resources Department—a role she began shaping earlier this year. Since January, Tara has been working diligently behind the scenes to build a strategic framework designed to … Continued
The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority is proud to share that Gwynneth Wildcatt, Director of Accessibility, Resources, and Member Services, has been appointed to the North Carolina Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Council (BAC). The BAC is a newly established advisory group comprised exclusively of individuals with lived experience as Medicaid beneficiaries, family members, or caregivers. Its … Continued
Siyo, I want to take a few minutes to connect with you personally about something that I know may be on many of your minds like what’s happening at the federal level, and what it could mean for us here at the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority. There’s been a lot of noise … Continued
CHEROKEE, N.C. — The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) is taking action to help the community safely dispose of unused, expired, or unwanted medications with a Drug Take Back Event scheduled for Wednesday, April 23 through Friday, April 25. Held in recognition of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, this initiative promotes responsible medication disposal … Continued