Comparison of care

The healthcare system at CIHA is ran by the citizens of Cherokee. They have voted in a Tribal Council that resides over decisions made regarding important health care decisions. The members of the healthcare team at CIHA involve all the healthcare workers at the hospital, including nurses, doctors, dietitian, CNA's and other members, including the patient as well. All are important to the atmosphere and positive outcomes for each patient. When someone comes in with a need Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority does everything possible that same day to provide the best treatment for the patient. They are able to assess, provide medication, take labs and other tests that same day. At the facility they also offer pharmaceuticals, vision care, and alternative medicines like acupuncture within the location of CIHA. There are many resources available at CIHA intentionally to provide as much care possible to each individual within one day. Although they are a smaller hospital they do have specialized physicians come in such as ear nose and throat physicians and nephrologists.  Some similarities between CIHA and the hospitals in Peoria and the surrounding area are the amount of education they provide to their staff. They are updating practices and do as much as they can to provide for the patients they serve. The major difference is their philosophy based on the Core Concepts by the South Central Foundation, which is essentially providing complete care for the patient through building a relationship with them. The staff come to know the patients and are able to provide the proper care for the Cherokee and those in the surrounding area. Overall, the major difference is how they care for their patients by making mental health a priority and also physical health and treat both with equal concern. It is amazing to see the depth of care provided in this facility and I aspire to care for my patients in the same manner they do at CIHA.