An In-Depth Look into the Healthcare System
A Healing Environment in the Heart of the Rockies
As you enter Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center (HRRMC), the difference is immediately evident. Natural light floods the atrium lobby, with mountain views and original artwork creating a calming, healing environment. This modern Critical Access Hospital blends advanced medical technology with natural beauty to support both patients and providers alike.
The 2008 main hospital and 2019 Outpatient Pavilion offer 140,000 square feet of purpose-built space, averaging just under 12 years old. From private inpatient rooms with mountain views to modern specialty clinics, you'll practice in settings designed for comfort and efficiency.
- Designated Critical Access Hospital with robust rural care support
- Top 100 Critical Access Hospital (2019, NRHA) for quality, outcomes, and efficiency
- Joint Commission accredited with a focus on national safety goals
- Private patient rooms, healing garden, walking trails, and curated artwork throughout the facility
- Outpatient Pavilion houses over 15 specialty services in a unified space
Rich Heritage with Modern Capabilities
Founded in 1885 as a railroad hospital, HRRMC has evolved into a regional medical hub. Now a community-owned nonprofit since 1976, the hospital combines a legacy of compassionate care with the capabilities of a modern health system.
- Level IV Trauma Center with ~8,036 emergency visits annually
- 25 licensed and staffed beds; average stay: 3.23 days
- Case Mix Index of 1.32 reflects a moderately complex patient population
- Offers rural-rare specialties such as neurology, dialysis, psychiatry, and sleep medicine
Understanding Critical Access Hospitals
HRRMC’s designation as a Critical Access Hospital (CAH) provides important advantages for both patients and physicians. Federal cost-based reimbursement ensures financial sustainability even with lower rural volumes, empowering HRRMC to maintain high-quality care without urban system bureaucracy.
- Limited to 25 inpatient beds, allowing for focused care delivery
- Cost-based Medicare reimbursement model supports financial strength
- Greater physician influence over hospital operations and protocols
- Broader clinical scope than typical in urban environments
- Healthy operating margins and strong cash position
Mission-Driven Excellence with Strong Leadership
HRRMC’s mission is to "enhance the health of our community through the delivery of personalized and exceptional care." This commitment to patient-centered care is more than a slogan—it guides daily operations, strategic initiatives, and organizational culture.
- Eight core values: Teamwork, Safety, Recognition, Talent, Attitude, Accountability, Customer Service, and Respect
- Vision to become the healthcare provider of choice and a world-class rural organization
- Led by CEO John Tucker, CMO Dr. Kendra Black, CNO April Asbury, and COO Desirae Westphal
- Staff of 485 employees delivering care across multiple service lines
Comprehensive Service Range in a Rural Setting
At HRRMC, you’ll find over 30 medical specialties in one collaborative environment, from Family Medicine and Orthopedics to Neurology and Surgical Services. This integration supports streamlined, patient-centered care not commonly available in rural facilities. The facility also provides infusion and chemotherapy services directly on-site, further supporting oncology care coordination.
- Comprehensive continuum of care including diagnostics, surgery, rehab, and wellness
- Strong IT infrastructure with a $1.5M annual tech budget and robust telehealth systems
- 146 primary providers and 216 secondary providers
- Patient draw includes Salida, Buena Vista, Westcliffe, Poncha Springs, and Howard
- Balanced payor mix supporting financial stability
- Net patient revenue of $129.5 million sustains ongoing capital investments
Practicing at HRRMC offers the rare combination of mission-driven, advanced rural care in a setting that supports both professional satisfaction and personal wellness.