Cherokee Nation starts new hearing aid program

The Cherokee Nation is expanding the tribe's hearing aid program for its citizens.

Principal Chief Bill John Baker issued an executive order late last week to expand the program.

The expanded order is funded by the tribe's gaming revenues.

"Since my first day in office, my administrative has been committed to expanding health care services and filling unmet needs," according to Baker.

"Providing Cherokees only one hearing aid when they need two is only a bandage and doesn't do enough to improve the quality of life for our citizens.

The previous policy was unacceptable in light of the strong growth our business operations have seen in recent years, and I believe our people deserve better.

This order will dramatically improve the quality of life for Cherokee citizens all across our great nation."

The new program will also be funded under the Health Dividend Act of 2011, which mandates an additional 5 percent of tribal business be set aside for contract health services.

Contract health services cover special surgeries and equipment, such as eyeglasses and dentures.

These items are not allowed under federal funds.

Other initiatives the Cherokee Nation have on the table include $100 million in health care facility construction, a takeover of Claremore Indian Hospital's contract health program and a 90-day prescription drug program.