EAST TENNESSEE (August 2021) – The 2021 National Health Center Week (NHCW) was celebrated the week of August 8-14, in recognition of Community Health Centers (CDC) that offer healthcare services to improve the health of citizens, especially to those who are vulnerable and underserved. CDC clinics save taxpayers more than $24 billion a year in health care costs by preventing and managing chronic diseases and minimizing emergency room visits. They are locally operated and are part of a national network that serves nearly 30 million clients nationwide.
Cherokee celebrates serving throughout the year. “It’s our utmost honor to provide health services to Tennesseans. During National Health Center Week and throughout the year, we hold steadfast to our values and look towards improving health outcomes and narrowing health disparities for generations to come,” said Dr. Dennis Freeman, Cherokee’s Chief Executive Officer.
Cherokee Health Center is a nationally recognized CHC and is the largest health care center in East Tennessee with 23 clinics conveniently located in Knoxville’s inner-city and surrounding counties that provide comprehensive health services, which include primary care, behavioral health, dental, and pharmacy services. These locations employ over 700 health care professionals and support staff. who served over 400,000 patient visits last year. Click here for a location near you.
During NHCW week, Cherokee Health expanded the celebration to recognize a community partner, employees, clients and the community with the following events.
The 2021 Community Partnership Award was presented to Rev. Leah Burns and Lennon-Seney United Methodist Church in East Knoxville. The award is given to a partner instrumental in supporting patient engagement and access to care. The church provided access to vaccines for the Knoxville community by hosting Cherokee’s first series of COVID-19 vaccine events.
Gifted clients at Cherokee Clinic, 5th Ave., Knoxville with “goodie bags” filled with shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and a toothbrush.
Lonsdale Homes Resource Fair sponsored by Knoxville Community Development Corporation, to engage with residents served by Cherokee’s Lonsdale clinic in an effort to learn social determinants (socioeconomic and environmental conditions, institutional controls, and social networks) people live, work, play and age in to better meet their needs.
Cherokee Spirit Awards recognizes employees, nominated by their peers, who best exemplify the spirit of Cherokee. This year’s winners are:
- Gail Jarnigan – Vaccine for Children Coordinator, Talbott clinic
- Maria Rodriguez – Certified Nursing Assistant, Center City clinic
- Dr. Carter Miller – VP, Chronic Care Services, 5th Ave. clinic
- Dr. Cindy Perry – Psychiatrist, 5th Ave. clinic
- Dr. Daniel Mills – BHC, Dameron Avenue clinic
- Cherokee Informational Technology Department
NHCW was a rewarding week of celebration for Cherokee Health of East Tennessee. “As an organization, we are eager to take everything learned and use it to make a difference in the communities we serve,” said Dr. Freeman.
Cherokee is part of a nationwide effort to save lives through COVID-19 vaccinations. At this time, Cherokee Health Systems has vaccinated more than 11,000 Tennesseans. Call 1-866-231-4477 to get your COVID-19 vaccine today.
To learn more about Cherokee, please visit cherokeehealth.com