The Catawba Nation (Tribe) is applying for the Indian Health Service funding available for Planning Cooperative Agreements for the Tribal Self-Governance Program (TSGP) to explore the options for assuming Programs, Services, Functions, and Activities (PSFAs) or portions which will give the Tribe the authority to manage and tailor health care programs that best fit the needs of the Tribal Members. Historically, Tribe had assumed operations over 20 years ago and in 2004 voluntarily returned the services to the Indian Health Service. The Tribe over the years has developed and improved upon their operations and business practices and desires to complete a process of feasibility study to determine assuming Programs, Services, Functions and Activities (PFSAs) of the Catawba Service Unit. With a Title V Self-Governance Compact, the Tribe can better address the health care needs of all Tribal Members.
The Tribe initiated a tribal wide Community Health Needs Assessment, working with the USET Epi Center, exploring the concerns, issues, insights, and needs of the tribal community beginning January 2024. This survey will conclude at the end of February 2024 at which time findings and results will be shared at an April 2024 General Council meeting of the membership.