Southwest Health System

11/20/2025

Rural healthcare isn’t smaller — it’s closer.
Closer to the people.
Closer to the problem.
Closer to the solution.

This National Rural Health Day, we’re celebrating the care that happens closest to home — built on connection, trust, and a commitment to doing what’s right for our communities.

Happy National Rural Health Day!

11/15/2025

Due to unforeseen circumstances and scheduling conflicts, we are cancelling this month's Walk with a Doc. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

11/14/2025

Measles Safety Alert

With a positive measles case confirmed in Montezuma County, we kindly request that anyone experiencing the following signs or symptoms wear a mask while in our facilities:
✅ Fever
✅ Cough
✅ Nasal congestion
✅ Red eyes
✅ Runny nose
✅ Full-body rash
✅ Fatigue
✅ Bluish or whitish spots in the mouth

Your cooperation helps protect our patients, staff, and community. Thank you for doing your part!

11/13/2025

We are thrilled to announce that Sara Spencer, Radiologic Technologist in Southwest Health System’s Specialty Care Department, has been named September’s Employee of the Month! 🎉

Sara was recognized by coworkers who shared:
“It’s hard to put into words just how much we appreciate everything Sara Spencer has brought to SHS over the past 11 years. What a journey—and what a difference she has made, not just to our department, but to every patient and teammate lucky enough to have worked with her.”

From day one, Sara has brought a steady hand, a compassionate heart, and unwavering dedication. Her work as a Rad Tech is so much more than images on a screen—she’s part of the story behind every diagnosis, every recovery, and every moment of trust.

Sara’s professionalism, energy, and kindness have set the bar high. She’s always willing to jump in wherever needed, whether assisting in the OR, helping with scheduling, or supporting patients with her contagious smile.

On behalf of Specialty Care and all of SHS, thank you, Sara, for your incredible commitment and heart. We’ve been lucky to have you on our team!

11/11/2025

Happy Veterans Day!

Today, we honor and thank all who have served our country with courage and dedication. Your sacrifices make a difference every day.

As a token of our gratitude, SHS is offering FREE lunch to all veterans today. Stop by and let us serve you—because you’ve served us all.

📍 Location: SHS Cafeteria, 1311 North Mildred Rd. Cortez, CO 81321
🕒 Time: 11 AM to 1 PM

Thank you for your service!

10/31/2025

🎃👻 Happy Halloween from Southwest Health System!

Wishing all our patients, staff, and community members a safe and spooky day filled with treats, laughter, and just the right amount of fright! Whether you're trick-or-treating, dressing up, or enjoying festive fun at home, we hope your Halloween is full of joy and good health.

10/30/2025

SMG Mancos Valley Health Clinic is currently experiencing issues with their phones. If you have urgent needs, please contact SMG Primary Care at 970-565-8556.

We apologize for any inconvenience this causes. We hope to have the issue resolved soon.

10/30/2025

Join us tomorrow for a spooktacular evening of fun at SHS's Trunk or Treat event!

🗓️ Date: October 31
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Gravel Parking Lot behind the hospital and helipad on Cottonwood St

Don't miss out—invite your friends and family for a safe and fun way to celebrate Halloween!

🎃👻 Trunk or Treat at SHS! 👻🎃

Join us for a spooktacular evening of fun at SHS's Trunk or Treat event!
🗓️ Date: October 31
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Gravel Parking Lot behind the hospital and helipad on Cottonwood St.

Bring your costumes, candy buckets, and festive spirit! There will be decorated trunks, treats for all ages, and plenty of Halloween cheer. 🎃🍬

Don't miss out—invite your friends and family for a safe and fun way to celebrate Halloween!

10/28/2025

📅 Wondering when the SHS Board meets?

The SHS Board meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month, with the exception of November and December and you're always welcome to join!

For agendas and meeting updates, please visit the SHS Board page: https://www.swhealth.org/about-us/boards/southwest-health-system/

10/21/2025

The Southwest Medical Group Walk-In Care Clinic will be closing early at 5:00 PM on Friday, October 24th, due to a mandatory system upgrade.

Normal clinic hours will resume on Saturday, October 25th, at 9:00 AM.

10/13/2025

Burt Calkins, Plant Operation Technician in the Southwest Health System’s Plant Operations department, is recognized as Southwest Health System’s August employee of the month!

Burt was recognized by a co-worker, who said, "Burt noticed that the admin copy room was in need of a shelving unit to organize our paper. This copy room is used by many and maintained by few and so it can get a little messy! When working on other tasks in the room, Burt knew it could be better. And without being prompted, he asked if he could find a shelf and fix the "paper" area for us! He definitely took initiative to perform outside his job description and go the extra mile when there was a situation, he knew he could make better! We really appreciate the fact that Burt goes above and beyond for his SHS teammates and would like to recognize him for his actions and attitude. We really appreciate the fact that he goes above and beyond for his SHS teammates. Thank you, Burt."

Congrats to Burt Calkins on his selection as the August 2025 SHS Employee of the Month! We are so proud of his accomplishments and are so thankful to have him as a member of this great SHS caregiver team!

10/10/2025

October is National Physical Therapy Month! 🎉

At SHS, we’re proud to celebrate the dedicated professionals in our Rehab Department who help our community stay strong, mobile, and pain-free every day. 💪

This month, we especially want to recognize our amazing physical therapists and assistants for their compassionate care and commitment to improving lives. From recovery and rehabilitation to long-term wellness, their work makes a lasting impact.

Let’s take a moment to thank our PT team for all they do!