Cherokee Nation Moves to Take Control of Underfunded Federal Hospital

Cherokee leaders, citing chronic underfunding in Indian Health Services (IHS) facilities, have set a plan in motion to take over the Claremore Indian Hospital. A new resolution presented to the Cherokee Nation’s Health Committee seeks to transfer operational control from the federal government to tribal health authorities. If approved on Sept. 16, a team will begin coordinating with IHS officials, with the goal of completing the transition by late 2025.

Councilman Kevin Easley Jr. noted that while the Claremore hospital staff is dedicated, the current federally managed system lacks sufficient resources compared to the tribe’s capabilities. Councilman Danny Callison echoed support for the initiative, emphasizing that Native health care should be managed by Native leaders. The plan aligns with Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr.’s vision for increased tribal self-governance, highlighted during his State of the Cherokee Nation address.

The Cherokee Nation has made significant strides in recent years toward operating independent health facilities, managing the largest tribal health care system in the U.S. with nearly 2 million patient visits annually. This system includes nine health centers, the W.W. Hastings Hospital, an employee health clinic, and a youth treatment center. The tribe is expanding with a new $450 million replacement hospital, an $85 million outpatient clinic in Salina, a $25 million adult treatment center, and new wellness centers in Tahlequah and Stilwell.