Colorado Rural Health Center Recognizes Top Performing Rural Healthcare Facilities

The Colorado Rural Health Center (CRHC) has recognized ten rural healthcare facilities for their outstanding commitment to community health and innovative service delivery. The inaugural Top 10 Rural Healthcare Facility for Overall Performance Award honored five hospitals and five clinics that demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving healthcare in rural Colorado.

Through a comprehensive evaluation process, CRHC's data team assessed clinic participation in quality improvement activities, innovation, and community health commitment. Hospital awards were determined in collaboration with the Chartis Group, a leading rural healthcare analytics organization.

The awarded facilities represent diverse geographic regions across Colorado, including rural communities in Del Norte, Trinidad, Aspen, Fort Morgan, Meeker, Holyoke, Battlement Mesa, Naturita, Walsenburg, and Walsh. Each facility was recognized for its unique contributions to local healthcare infrastructure.

CRHC CEO Michelle Mills emphasized the critical role of local healthcare facilities, stating that these institutions are the fundamental support system for rural healthcare delivery. The awards program aims to highlight and celebrate the essential work performed by these healthcare providers in maintaining community health and well-being.

The recognition comes as part of the first annual Colorado Rural Healthcare Conference, which introduced these awards to showcase the significant efforts of rural healthcare facilities. By acknowledging these institutions, CRHC hopes to draw attention to the challenges and achievements of healthcare delivery in less populated areas.

The awarded hospitals—Rio Grande Hospital, Mt. San Rafael Hospital, Aspen Valley Hospital, East Morgan County Hospital, and Pioneers Medical Center—and clinics—Family Practice of Holyoke, Grand River Health, Basin Clinic, Spanish Peaks Family Health, and Walsh Medical Center—represent a cross-section of rural healthcare excellence.

This awards program serves as a critical platform for recognizing the often-overlooked contributions of rural healthcare facilities. By highlighting their achievements, CRHC aims to encourage continued innovation, quality improvement, and community-focused healthcare services across Colorado's rural landscape.