This October marks ten years since Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) opened the doors to its current hospital building. This important milestone serves as a reminder of the people served, the relationships built, and the growth that has taken place across a decade of care. To celebrate, CIHA is launching a new campaign, “A New Generation of Care,” running September–October 2025 and culminating in an anniversary celebration for the whole community.
“Ten years ago, we opened a new building, but more importantly we opened a new chapter in the sovereignty of Cherokee health and healing,” said Casey Cooper, Chief Executive Officer of CIHA. “An entire generation has come through these halls since 2015. Some of the children who arrived in car seats on opening day are now walking in for their own appointments. This campaign honors that journey and recommits us to the next seven generations.”
“A New Generation of Care” intends to honor the past decade of growth, healing, and connection cultivated since the facility opened—while celebrating how CIHA continues to serve a new generation of patients, caregivers, and community members. CIHA’s Core Purpose is to assure the prosperity of the next seven generations of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and with a decade since opening the doors of the new hospital, we have endeavored to faithfully serve an entire generation.
Rooted in CIHA’s Guiding Principles, “A New Generation of Care” highlights how the health system blends innovation with tradition—ensuring that every decision, treatment, and relationship benefits not only today’s patients but those who follow.
“Modern medicine grounded in Cherokee values is our daily work,” said Dr. Rick Bunio, Director of Medical Services. “We’ve expanded services, grown our workforce, and adapted to the evolving needs of our community. This anniversary is both gratitude for the past ten years and focus for the future.”
To really celebrate the last 10 years, CIHA needs the help of the patients and community we serve. As noted in our Guiding Principle, ᏂᎯᏣᏤᎵ (Ni hi tsa tse li), “It belongs to you,” so we want to hear from you. Share with us your stories, your memories, your experiences since 2015 and let us know how we can best serve you during this new generation of care.