Tribal EMS recently launched the EMS Bridge Program in partnership with the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) through Analenisgi, CIHA’s Behavioral Health Department. The initiative is designed to strengthen the connection between emergency medical response and ongoing recovery support for individuals experiencing overdoses and behavioral health crises.
Under the EMS Bridge Program, Tribal EMS will continue to respond in the moment of crisis and then help connect individuals to treatment, resources, and community-based support after the emergency call. A key feature of the program is coordinated follow-up with Analenisgi: trained peer support staff will return to patients’ homes to offer practical support, answer questions, and open the door to care.
Lisa Wells Peer Support Specialist at Analenisgi will serve as the dedicated Bridge Peer Support Specialist assisting Tribal EMS. Drawing on lived experience with 16 years in recovery, paired with her professional training, Wells will accompany EMS staff on return visits, offer encouragement and peer engagement, and guide individuals and families toward services that match their goals.
“When someone is ready—or even just thinking about change—we’ll be there,” said Wells. “Our role is to help them get connected with Analenisgi, where they can get connected with resources and opportunities such as the Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Program, therapy groups, engage in behavioral health, Cherokee culture, and other recovery-focused services.”
How it works
- Tribal EMS responds and stabilizes the patient.
- With patient consent, Tribal EMS initiates a referral to the EMS Bridge Program.
- A follow-up visit is scheduled led by Tribal EMS with Peer Support participation.
- The team offers brief screening, safety planning, naloxone education, and a direct connection to Analenisgi for treatment options (including medication-assisted treatment where appropriate), counseling, and recovery supports.
- Continued check-ins help reduce barriers such as transportation, paperwork, or uncertainty about next steps.
“This launch reflects a year of hard work by Tribal EMS and Analenisgi,” said Casey Cooper, Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority CEO. “It advances CIHA’s commitment to compassionate, culturally informed care that connects urgent response with sustained support.”
To learn more about the program, download the Bridge Brochure here.