Publication Date: December 12th, 2025
Publication Type: Case Studies
Topic(s): American Indians and Alaska Natives, Healthcare Access, Hospitals and Clinics, Quality, Social Determinants of Health
Author(s): Baker HA, Tuttle MS, and Kozhimannil KB
The purpose of this qualitative case study is to describe how the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) is addressing the health needs of its community, with an emphasis on integrating Cherokee culture and Western medical care as a method to improve community health. The CIHA is a tribally owned and operated healthcare system in the rural southeastern United States that has implemented community- and culturally centered initiatives to best serve their patient population. We documented CIHA’s work in the context of government-to-government relationships between federal and state entities and Native Nations. We aim to inform federal investments and decisions regarding the trust responsibility for the health of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) peoples and communities.