History of Cherokee Indian Hospital
The Cherokee Indian Hospital’s history is deeply rooted in the legacy of healthcare for the Cherokee people. Its beginnings trace back to the early boarding school era when the first facility, operated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), offered surgery, outpatient, and inpatient services. It was located near the site of today’s Women’s and Children’s building. Early Growth and Transition
In 1937, the BIA constructed a new hospital to expand services, including surgery, outpatient care, dental care, and inpatient services. By 1955, management transitioned from the BIA to the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, which established the Indian Health Service (IHS). This era marked growth, with a staff of 32, including three physicians and eight nurses, and an annual average of 20,000 outpatient visits. In 1974, a modern outpatient clinic—owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians—was added, marking the first time a tribe had built and leased a healthcare facility to the federal government. This building still stands, housing the Unity Healing Center and Cherokee Police Department. A New Hospital for the Community
In October 1980, Chief John Crowe dedicated the current hospital facility, which opened in 1981, significantly expanding staff, services, and outpatient capacity. The Cherokee Indian Hospital received accreditation from the Joint Commission in March 1982, underscoring its commitment to quality healthcare. Transition to Tribal Ownership
On September 2, 2002, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians assumed ownership of the Cherokee Indian Hospital under a compact with the IHS. Resolution 410 established the Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority, granting it the authority to manage and fund services independently. The facility, now an 20-bed hospital, serves approximately 14,000 enrolled members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and their descendants. This transition allowed the hospital to expand its infrastructure, strengthen financial services, and improve community health. Notable Milestones in Cherokee Healthcare
Pioneering Figures
Before the turn of the 19th century, Dr. Hartman “Doc” Oberlander became the first official physician for the Eastern Cherokee School and Agency in 1894. Lula Owl Gloyne, who later became the first registered nurse of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, played a crucial role in early healthcare efforts. Her work in the 1920s and advocacy alongside tribal officials in Washington, D.C., led to the construction of the Cherokee Indian Hospital, with construction beginning in 1936. Recent Innovations
In October 2015, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians unveiled a new $83 million healthcare facility, providing state-of-the-art medical services in an environment infused with Cherokee culture. Since its opening, CIHA has introduced significant expansions, including:
Kanvwotiyi – Residential Treatment Center
Women’s & Men’s Residential Support Homes
Groundbreaking for a new clinic in Cherokee County set to open in October 2025
Opened brand new state-of-the-art long-term care facility in 2024 to replace the original Tsali Care skilled nursing facility
In 2018, Tribal leadership approved funding for a new psych/detox inpatient unit. Following demolition of the old hospital structure in 2019, the Analenisgi Inpatient Unit opened in 2021, providing crisis stabilization services to the community. Continuing the Legacy
The Cherokee Indian Hospital remains committed to the vision of improving health outcomes for the Cherokee people while respecting and preserving their cultural heritage. Through the ongoing support of Tribal leadership and community collaboration, CIHA continues to honor the legacy of pioneering healthcare advocates like Lula Owl Gloyne.
