The Cherokee Nation and U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System (EOVAHCS) officially opened its Vinita VA Outpatient Clinic inside the tribe’s Vinita Health Center in May 2024. EOVAHCS serves more than 50,000 Veterans across Eastern Oklahoma. The historic partnership now provides a VA clinic inside the Cherokee Nation Vinita Health Center for area veterans. The 1,300 square feet of leased space with a VA Primary Care Team serves Native and non-Native veterans in Eastern Oklahoma. Native Americans, including Cherokees, are thought to have more citizens serving per capita than any other ethnic group. “This first-of-its-kind VA healthcare facility is a testament to our partnership with Cherokee Nation and our commitment to providing exceptional care to veterans,” said Kimberly Denning, DNP, RN, Executive Director of EOVAHCS.