Cherokee Health Systems Reflects on the COVID-19 Pandemic

June 08, 2022

Media Contact: Brittany McCraw

C: 865-770-8091

brittany.mccraw@cherokeehealth.com

 Cherokee Health Systems Reflects on the COVID-19 Pandemic

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 8, 2022

KNOXVILLE, Tenn.- Cherokee Health Systems is celebrating the strength of its team as it reflects on the COVID-19 pandemic. Over two years ago, the health center encountered numerous obstacles as it began to navigate the unprecedented phases of COVID-19. Through the changes, Cherokee Health’s team remained adaptive as they continued to provide high-quality care to those who needed it. The health center has plans to celebrate its staff members during the month of June to show appreciation for their hard work during the difficult season.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed Cherokee Health Systems to be more nimble, creative, and resilient in the face of tremendous challenges. We have a remarkable team whose steadfast commitment to care for our community is awe-inspiring and humbling.  It’s amazing to take a moment to acknowledge what our team has accomplished over the past two years,” said Cherokee Health Systems’ Chief Executive Officer Dr. Parinda Khatri.

Since March 2020, Cherokee Health Systems has seen 95,585 unique patients, conducted 730,747 visits, administered 20,440 COVID-19 vaccines, completed 16,860 COVID-19 tests, increased the use of telehealth services by 1040 percent, implemented a Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) hypertension management program, significantly improved quality metrics for statin therapy, HIV screening, breast cancer screening, depression remission, and dental sealants, purchased and began operating a mobile clinic, installed and deployed 210 Zoom screens, 50 iPads, 60 desktop computers, and 108 laptops for staff, launched a new pharmacy in Alcoa, opened a new health center in Knoxville, launched optometry services, among other things. According to Jennifer Craig, director of nursing services, the milestones achieved during the COVID-19 pandemic could not have been possible without the support of each team member.

“While I have worked in healthcare during many challenging times, the COVID-19 pandemic has been the most taxing challenge of my nursing career. I would not have survived without the support of my entire team. It has taken everyone working together to continue to provide excellent patient care and navigate rapid changes,“ said Craig.

To learn more about Cherokee Health Systems, visit www.cherokeehealth.com.

About Cherokee Health Systems Since 1960, CHS has been committed to ensuring Tennesseans get access to effective, high-quality care. CHS is a Federally Qualified Health Center that serves 75,000 people annually. We offer a wide array of comprehensive health services, including primary care, behavioral health, dental, pharmacy, and optometry. All of our services are available to children, adults, and seniors on an ability to pay basis. CHS is a TennCare (Medicaid) and Medicare provider. In addition, CHS accepts commercial insurance for payment.