EDITOR: The City of Globe, Town of Miami, and surrounding communities are home to more than 30,000 residents who rely on Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center for accessible, affordable and quality medical care.

We are a Critical Access Hospital (CAH), a federal designation given to healthcare facilities in communities where the next nearest hospital is at least 35 miles away. During a medical emergency — say, a heart attack or car accident — having a hospital like ours close by can mean the difference between life and death. Unfortunately, small hospitals in rural areas are also some of the hardest hit by rising costs to attract physicians and provide healthcare to individuals without insurance.

That’s why we are so grateful for the support of Governor Ducey and the Arizona Legislature. As part of the recently-approved 2018-19 State budget, Arizona leaders directed an additional $1.8 million to support Critical Access Hospitals and the services we provide.

These state dollars — matched by approximately $4 million from the federal government — will help those of us at Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center to continue doing what we do best: caring for our patients.

Thank you, Governor Ducey and legislators.

Neal Jensen, CEO

Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center