FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                    

Media Contact Information: Heather Griffin

Heather.griffin@creekhealth.org | 918-691-2076

Muscogee Nation Achieves Historic First with Robotic Surgery System

TULSA, OKLA. — On Monday, Oct. 9, Muscogee Nation’s Council Oak Comprehensive Healthcare in Tulsa, Okla., became the first Tribal health care facility in the lower 48 United States to perform minimally invasive surgery utilizing the da Vinci XI robotic surgery system.

The da Vinci robotic surgery system allows surgeons to complete minimally invasive operations using specialized robotic instrumentation equipped to perform the same function as scissors, scalpels and forceps. Surgeons control the robotic arms of the system from a surgical console using instruments attached to their wrists and with the assistance of magnified, 3D views from miniaturized surgical cameras.

Dr. Micah Wright, D.O., a urogynecologist on the medical staff at Council Oak Comprehensive Healthcare, was the first surgeon to perform a procedure using Council Oak’s new da Vinci technology.

“This robot will be a valuable resource for the Muscogee Nation Department of Health,” said Dr. Wright. “The use of the robot extends the surgeon’s vision and movement capabilities, leading to an overall more precise surgery. The major bonus, though, is it is minimally invasive. Not only are their less complications, but the recovery process is, in most cases, so much easier for the patient,” Dr. Wright said.

In recent decades, robotic surgery has revolutionized the way surgeons perform a number of procedures. In addition to enhancing the views, precision and range of motion for surgeons, robotic-assisted surgery decreases the incidence of surgical complications for patients compared to traditional open surgery. Smaller incisions mean less risk for infection, blood loss, pain and scarring. All of these benefits add up to shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery.

For its Council Oak debut, Dr. Wright used the robotic surgical system to perform a hysterectomy. More than 500,000 women in the U.S. have hysterectomies each year, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Women’s Health.

Traditional open hysterectomies where physicians make a large incision in the abdomen typically require a two to three-day hospital stay and six to eight weeks for a full recovery. Robotic-assisted surgery, however, may reduce total recovery time from a hysterectomy by as much as half.

“It is hard to believe I just had major surgery,” said Briahna Kincade, one of the first patients to utilize the new technology. “My hysterectomy was completed very quickly. I woke up from the procedure, and several hours later, I was home with my family. I have no reason to think my recovery won’t be just as easy. I’m confident that I will be back to work and participating in all the other activities I enjoy in no time,” said Kincade.

In addition to gynecological surgeries, Council Oak physicians anticipate using the da Vinci robotic surgery technology for several minimally invasive operations, including hernia repairs and gallbladder removals.

“The investment in this surgical system is going to transform surgical care for the Muscogee Nation Department of Health,” said Shawn Terry, Muscogee Nation Secretary of Health. “We are excited about the enhancement it offers to our surgeons and the benefits it provides to our patients. We are constantly looking for ways to provide the very best in patient care – this robot is just one step towards creating a center for excellence in surgical care.”

“Here at the Muscogee Creek Nation, we’re not just taking care of people today, we have a responsibility to make sure they receive the best care and quality of life possible in the future,” Principal Chief David Hill said. “To see MCN Health continue to be forward-thinking and aggressive in seeking out resources and technology that keeps us on the cutting edge, is very gratifying.”

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About MCN Health

Headquartered in Okmulgee Okla., the Muscogee Nation is the fourth largest federally recognized tribe in the United States with more than 100,000 citizens. The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Department of Health operates community hospitals and a physical rehabilitation center serving both tribal citizens and the general public. To ensure healthy generations of Native people, the Nation also operates Indian health clinics and provides dedicated services for citizens of federally recognized tribes.

 About the da Vinci surgical system

There are several models of the da Vinci surgical system. The da Vinci surgical systems are designed to help surgeons perform minimally invasive surgery. Da Vinci systems offer surgeons high-definition 3D vision, a magnified view, and robotic and computer assistance. They use specialized instrumentation, including a miniaturized surgical camera and wristed instruments (i.e., scissors, scalpels and forceps) that are designed to help with precise dissection and reconstruction deep inside the body.

OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Senior Services to provide COVID-19 Elder Safety Packages for Muscogee (Creek) citizens age 65 or older.

Elders living in either the MCN Reservation or At-Large are eligible. Proof of Muscogee (Creek) citizenship is required.

Items in the care package includes: disposable masks, reusable mask, face shield, multi-purpose disinfectant and other assorted items.

Please allow 4-6 weeks to process applications.

Applicants can request to be mailed an application, complete an application over the phone or curbside pickup. Online applications are for At-Large citizens only.

For more information, please contact: 918-732-7765, 918-732-7731 and 918-732-7699 or email at: elderservices@muscogeenation.com.

For At-Large application, CLICK HERE.

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For Immediate Release
July 29, 2020

Media Contact: Jason Salsman

O: (539) 286-4559

jsalsman@muscogeenation.com

Muscogee (Creek) Nation announces Mvskoke Reservation Protection Commission

Commission will focus on long-term growth, security and prosperity in the region

OKMULGEE — Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief David Hill announced an Executive Order July 29 establishing the Mvskoke Reservation Protection Commission.

“As the only tribal nation whose lands were directly at issue in the Supreme Court case, we are mindful of our responsibility to play a primary leadership role in ensuring that the Court’s decision results in greater prosperity and safety for all,” Principal Chief David Hill said.

The United States Supreme Court ruling on July 9 affirmed the territorial boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Reservation, a determination that has positive implications not only for MCN, but for everyone within the Nation’s boundaries and for all governmental and private entities who wish to work collaboratively toward a brighter future for all Oklahomans.

“Members of our task force have already been hard at work addressing immediate jurisdictional issues, implementing new agreements and ensuring the continuity of government services,” Hill said. “But to give both Creek Nation and our neighbors the gains in public safety and economic prosperity made possible by the Court’s decision, we must develop thoughtful, comprehensive plans for long-term cooperation.”

The commission will be made up of Muscogee (Creek) citizens and conduct in-depth analysis of major subject areas that will include, but are not limited to: Law Enforcement and Public Safety, Indian Child Welfare and Social Services, Government-to-Government Relationships and Policy, Judicial Affairs, Legal and Regulatory Matters, Business and Commerce, and Violence Against Native Women and Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women.

Principal Chief Hill will serve as Chairperson and will request that the Commission provide reports, including findings and recommendations, on any Executive Orders, National Council Resolutions, or other governmental actions that need to be taken to ensure the public health, safety, and welfare of all of those living, or seeking to do business, within the MCN Reservation borders.

Another key aspect of the Commission will be its role in collaborating with other governmental sovereigns including federal, tribal, state, county, and municipality authorities, to ensure criminal, civil adjudicatory, and civil regulatory jurisdictional issues are addressed through mutual understanding and cooperation across the many jurisdictions that currently exist in eastern Oklahoma.

“We have a great deal of respect for our sister sovereigns here in Oklahoma,” Hill said. “Our Nation has a long history of diplomatic relations with other sovereigns, from Spain and England long before the existence of the United States, to states such as Alabama and Oklahoma, towns and municipalities such as Tulsa and Okmulgee, and our sister tribal nations.”

“Our creation of this Commission is just a next step in what we know will be a successful intergovernmental framework to ensure the safety, health and prosperity of those who live and work on, in or near the borders of our Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation.”

Praising the establishment of the commission was the mayor of the MCN’s capital city of Okmulgee.

“I see a great opportunity for a lot of positive action we can take between the City and Creek Nation regarding the McGirt ruling,” Mayor Richard Larabee said. “The Tribe having the formal recognition of their reservation status just reaffirms what an asset they are to our community, and I look forward to working with Chief and Second Chief in keeping Okmulgee rising.”

The commission will be effective immediately, and will continue its work for one year unless modified by Executive Order. The commission will issue its initial report no later than six months from the date of the commission’s first meeting.

Click here for Executive Order

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May 29, 2020

Hesci!

We hope that all of our citizens and their families are doing well and staying safe. The COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted our daily lives and routines on several levels. A lot has happened since we last were able to address you in this format and we are grateful to once again have this opportunity to practice governmental transparency. We have had an extrem­­­ely busy, yet productive week within the Executive Branch and we’re happy to share some focal points of our activities.

First and foremost, we are thrilled to welcome our employees back to work on June 1.

This decision came through several weeks of consulting with our health officials because safety has always been our top priority. The data and information we’re receiving along with the precautions we will be putting into place through our comprehensive “Protect Our People” return initiative, leaves us confident that it’s the right time to bring our employees back.

We’re happy to report th­­at our casino operations will also resume on June 1, albeit with health restrictions in place to maximize safety. Our Gaming Board, casino officials and employees and MCN Health have done a phenomenal job working together throughout this interruption and have put a great plan in place to get the doors open again for our guests.

On April 24, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation IT Department informed our office of a potential data security incident that required our attention and swift action. On April 27, we held the first of three updates with the National Council to inform the legislative branch of the situation. This office was advised by cyber security experts and investigators that the utmost discretion was needed to secure the situation, as well as to not hinder the investigation. There was never evidence provided at any time during the investigation that any personal information or sensitive data was stolen or compromised. Today, we learned that the forensic investigation is being finalized with still no evidence of a breach of citizens’ personal information. Until the investigation is concluded no specifics can be publicly discussed, however we expect a final technical analysis report of the incident will be available June 10.

Finally, we are happy to announce a historic payment to the tribe of $282 million from the Coronavirus Relief Fund established through the CARES Act. A committee was formed to deploy these funds which included grant professionals, federal policy experts and National Council representatives to provide citizen input on the distribution. This committee has thoroughly assessed the guidelines and restrictions of this funding, and have named four key areas for disbursement: Individual and Family Support, Health Care Services and Access, Government Operations and Infrastructure, and Business & Enterprise Relief. We feel strongly that this relief funding is meant for the prosperity of our Nation’s citizens. We are confident that the committee has addressed crucial areas of need, while remaining good stewards of this fund by adhering to the standards and purpose set forth in the guidelines.

In closing, we want to let our citizens know that we value their input and welcome their interest in the operations of tribal government. While we admit that we have been faced with what at times seems like an unimaginable situation and having to make several difficult decisions, we appreciate the support we’ve received. Stay blessed and stay safe.

Mvto,

David W. Hill, Principal Chief

Del Beaver, Second Chief

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2020

Muscogee (Creek) Nation VITA and TCE programs suspended due to COVID-19

IRS extends tax filing, Economic Impact Payments to be issued 

OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs have been suspended until further notice due to the public health and safety risk of COVID-19.

Muscogee (Creek) citizens are encouraged to use the IRS free e-file services during this time at: myfreetaxes.com.

Any citizen who utilizes these programs who may have further questions may contact, Zech Harjo at: (918) 758-8782 or (918) 549-2767.

The IRS has responded to COVID-19 by extending the deadline for tax filing and payment to July 15.

The IRS will also be issuing Economic Impact Payments to every eligible American based on tax filing and Social Security benefits records.

Those who receive Social Security benefits who may have questions can call their local Social Security office and speak with their case manager.

For more information and updates about the Economic Impact Payments, visit: www.irs.gov/coronavirus.

For more FAQs about the VITA, TCE and IRS stimulus package, see below:

Important Tax Filing Updates

• Until further notice, the MCN Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs have been suspended due to the public health and safety risk of COVID-19. Currently, there are no similar programs open to the public within MCN jurisdiction.
• The filing and payment deadline has been extended an extra 90 days beyond the former April 15^th filing/payment deadline. The new filing/payment deadline is July 15, 2020.
• For more information, you can visit irs.gov/coronavirus for the most recent updates and tips.

Still Need to File Taxes?

• While nearly all VITA-TCE sites are currently closed, there may be some sites working towards a virtual filing system that would allow them to continue operations and some sites may reopen later this summer prior to the new deadline.

For updates on these sites and opportunities, please call the MCN VITA Site Coordinator Zech Harjo @ 918.758.878299 or 918.549.2767.

• If your adjusted gross income is under $69,000 and you have internet access at home, you can use the IRS Free File at myfreetaxes.com where there is also technical assistance available to those filing who have questions.

Clients who use the IRS Free E-File, may also reach out to the MCN VITA program at the number listed above for questions or inquiries not answered by MyFreeTaxes.com or any other IRS Free E-File program.

What about the Stimulus Package?

• The IRS will soon be issuing Economic Impact Payments to every eligible American based on tax filing and social security benefits records. Eligible Social Security recipients and railroad retirees who are otherwise not required to file a return will not be required to file a return or provide further information.
• All individuals who make under $75,000 qualify for the full $1,200 Economic Impact Payment. For Head of Household individuals, the threshold is $112,500. For married couples, the threshold is $150,000 and the payment is $2,400.

**For heads of household and married couples, there is a $500 additional payment for each eligible dependent.**

• All individuals whose income exceeds the above listed thresholds will be issued a reduced payment with the final income thresholds of $99,000 for single filers, $136,500 for head of household and $198,000 for married couples. Incomes above these thresholds are not eligible for the Economic Impact Payments.

How Do I Receive My Payment?

• Since the Economic Impact Payment is to be issued based on tax filings and social security benefits, the majority of eligible Americans do not need to take ANY action to receive their payments.
• The IRS will issue payments via direct deposit to the bank account or paper checks to the addresses associated with tax filings from tax years 2018 and 2019. The majority of citizens who draw social security benefits, will also qualify for the payments whether or not they have filed taxes. Those payments will be issued to the bank account or mailed to the address social security benefits are normally distributed to.
• Individuals who qualify for the Economic Impact Payment based on income, but have not filed taxes in the last 2 years are urged to do so even if they normally are not required to file taxes because of low income. A recent filing will provide IRS the necessary information as to where to issue the Impact Payment, as well as any owed tax return refunds – direct deposit is the fastest way to get either the Impact Payment or a refund.
• If no action is taken, individuals who qualified for the Impact Payment, but did not receive a payment may be able to claim the payment as a tax credit in the 2021 filing season.

Still waiting and want to know where your stimulus payment is?

• For most citizens, no action is required, if you’ve filed taxes within the last 2 years including Veterans. Furthermore, the Economic Impact Payments will be paid to the Veterans without the requirement for them to go anywhere online and enter the information.
• To check the status of your payment please visit: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment and follow the instruction therein. Do not leave any question unanswered or give “N/A”; the system cannot interpret such responses and may delay payment
• If have not filed or are not typically required to file, use the Non-Filers payment information link: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here.

General information about the Economic Impact Payments is available on a special section of IRS.gov at: www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payment-information-center.

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Muscogee (Creek) Nation calls for volunteers during COVID-19 pandemic

Volunteers needed to provide relief for elders, families and health care workers

OKMULGEE, Oklahoma — During this time as we face the global pandemic of COVID-19, Principal Chief David Hill and Second Chief Del Beaver have announced the #OneMvskoke Initiative Volunteer Campaign.

The Muscogee (Creek) Nation is asking citizens to embrace the spirit of unity by answering the call to volunteer and assist in what may include services to elders, assistance to health care employees, food programs and a host of other services that may be affected during this crisis.

At this time, MCN operations are efficient and plans that have been put in place are displaying success in filling the gaps in services. However, we want to remain proactive and prepared if more people are needed in certain areas.

Any citizen wanting to volunteer in any capacity during this time of crisis, please contact:

(918) 549-2453 or jsalsman@muscogeenation.com.

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