Copyright © 2006 NLThomas
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TAHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA – Cherokee Nation has once again achieved the gold standard for health by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), when the group recently awarded Cherokee Nation Health Services a second three-year term.

Ambulatory health care organizations seeking accreditation by AAAHC undergo an extensive on-site, peer-based survey of its facilities and services. This allows for the Cherokee Nation health services to be compared nationally with other healthcare organizations that are accredited. Cherokee Nation first received recognition from AAAHC in 2003.

“This accreditation is a very significant accomplishment, requiring substantial preparation time, dedication and effort,” Principal Chief Chad Smith said. “I commend the Health Services Group for their successful efforts to gain accreditation.”

Cherokee Nation Group Leader for Health Services Melissa Gower said that the accreditation process is important because it shows a long-term commitment to Cherokee citizens and others who use the services provided by the tribe.

“Accreditation underscores our long-standing commitment to providing the highest possible levels of quality care to the community we serve,” said Melissa Gower, group leader for health services. “We are pleased and proud to have our efforts recognized with this accreditation.”

Cherokee Nation operates six primary care health facilities and two satellite clinics within the 14-county jurisdictional areas. For more information visit Cherokee Nation Health Services online.

Related Cherokee Nation contact information:

Mike Miller, Cherokee Nation Director of Communications Phone: 918-456-0671 (ext.2210) Fax: 918-458-5580 E-mail: Communications@cherokee.org Larry Daugherty, Advertising Manager Cherokee Nation - Public Affairs Phone 918-456-0671 (Ex.2324) E-mail: ldaugherty@cherokee.org

Steven Swogger, Agriculture Liaison Natural Resources Department Phone: 918-456-0671 (ext.2546) FAX: 918-458-7673 E-mail: sswogger@cherokee.org Bradley D. Peak, Cherokee Nation Natural Resources Specialist Phone: 918-456-0671 (ex.2843) E-mail: bpeak@cherokee.org