• The new 130,000-square-foot Pavilion 2 expands specialty, surgical and outpatient care at UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital.
• The expansion gives patients in Douglas County and south metro Denver access to advanced care options close to home.
• Services include gastroenterology, heart and vascular care, cardiac rehabilitation, imaging, internal medicine, outpatient physical therapy and rehabilitation and the Surgery Center of Highlands Ranch.
• Dermatology, executive health, infusion, outpatient laboratory services, pre-procedure services and pulmonary function testing will open in the coming months.

Highlands Ranch, Colo. (Aug. 31, 2026) – With the opening of Pavilion 2 at UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital, residents of Douglas County and south metro Denver now have greater access to specialty, surgical and outpatient services close to home. The expansion brings advanced care to one of Colorado's fastest-growing communities.

Rapid community growth results in increase demand for healthcare

The project reflects the rapid growth of Douglas County and the strong demand for convenient, high-quality care in Highlands Ranch. Since its opening in 2019, Highlands Ranch Hospital has been operating near capacity most days. UCHealth broke ground on Pavilion 2 and a second hospital tower in 2023, just four years after the hospital opened, to continue meeting the needs of the growing community.

Services available in Pavilion 2

• Gastroenterology clinic
• Heart and vascular care, including cardiac rehabilitation
• Imaging
• Internal medicine clinic
• Outpatient physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Surgery Center of Highlands Ranch

In the coming months, dermatology, executive health, infusion, outpatient laboratory services, pre-procedure services and pulmonary function testing will also open.

Continued investment in Highlands Ranch Hospital

The expansion is part of UCHealth’s continued investment in Highlands Ranch Hospital and the broader south metro Denver region. In addition to Pavilion 2, a new hospital tower is expected to open this fall, expanding the emergency department, adding 70 inpatient beds and creating shelled space for future growth.

Pavilion 2 offers greater access to advanced treatments, specialty clinics, imaging, rehabilitation and outpatient procedures. For many patients, that means fewer trips to metro Denver and more options for coordinated care on the Highlands Ranch campus.

About UCHealth

UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.6 billion in community benefits including $762 million in uncompensated and charity care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz campus, UCHealth includes 37,000 employees, 15 acute-care hospitals and thousands of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska.

“Time is of the essence with critical patients,” said Dr. Laura Sehnert, chief medical officer at UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center (YVMC) and a practicing emergency medicine physician. “We’re excited to welcome LifeLine into our community and are grateful UCHealth is further investing in the health of residents in northwest Colorado.”

LifeLine 6 is a new AirBus H125 helicopter operated by REACH Air Medical Services. It is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment that includes Hamilton-T1 transport ventilation, CPAP and BIPAP; Zoll X cardiac monitor with advanced hemodynamic monitoring; Sapphire infusion pump; blood and plasma; EDAN dual fetal monitor; and advanced airway management equipment. The aircraft can transport one patient at a time, with each flight supported by a pilot, flight paramedic and flight nurse.

Pending weather conditions and with a speed of up to 140 knots/161 miles per hour, LifeLine 6 has the capability of transporting a patient from YVMC in Steamboat Springs to, for example, UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland in 50 minutes or a hospital in the Denver area in 55 minutes.

“The new LifeLine base in Steamboat Springs will provide patients with ready access to flight service,” said Rob Leeret, vice president of patient access and logistics for UCHealth. “LifeLine supports patient transport to any healthcare facility, be it a UCHealth location or a facility of the patient’s or sending provider’s choice.”

Should the Steamboat-based aircraft require maintenance or an additional patient transfer be needed, backup helicopters will activate from Loveland or Cheyenne. LifeLine also can provide fixed wing coverage out of Denver. LifeLine also partners with non-UCHealth air medical providers to ensure patient transport occurs as quickly as possible.

UCHealth will employ 6-8 staff, including flight nurses and flight paramedics, to support LifeLine operations in Steamboat. They will work closely with YVMC’s Level III trauma center and local first responders. YVMC will continue using existing air transport partners as necessary to ensure timely patient transport.

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With just a few drops of blood, Abbott's i-STAT Alinity traumatic brain injury (TBI) test can eliminate the need for a computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain, reducing exposure to radiation. The test provides lab-quality results in about 15 minutes and a “not elevated” test result helps clinicians rule out a CT scan, which can take more than three hours to complete and read.

Dr. George Hertner, chair of emergency medicine for UCHealth in southern Colorado, said the hospitals have used the test more than 175 times over the past six months with strong results. Evaluating patients for possible mild brain injuries – often suffered from falls or while playing sports – is commonplace in the emergency department. Hertner said the test is also frequently used for patients who have been in motor vehicle accidents or have suffered a blow to the head.

The test – done with a handheld device at the patient’s bedside - looks for two proteins released into the bloodstream after a brain injury. If the proteins are not present, patients can avoid a CT scan. If the test is positive, a scan is often still necessary.

“It’s a rule-out test – it helps us know when we don’t need to do a CT scan. In that capacity, it has performed very well,” Hertner said, adding that the test eliminated the need for scans in 80% of the cases.

“Avoiding a scan can shorten your stay in the emergency department, lower radiation exposure associated with a scan, eliminate the need for a radiologist’s evaluation and reduce costs for everyone,” Hertner said. “Everybody wins.”

He further explained: “When you hit your head, we want to know if there could be bleeding in the brain. A strong hit can damage brain cells, which release specific proteins into the blood. This test helps us see if that kind of injury may have happened and if a CT scan is needed. So if your test is positive, we should do a scan.”

There are some caveats for the test. Among them:

• It can only be used on patients 18 and older.
• It must be used within 24 hours of injury.

“We are exploring how we can safely use this test in a more broad range of people,” Hertner said. “This test is already demonstrating the ability to use resources where they are most needed.”

Signs of a potential head injury include loss of consciousness, headache, repetitive vomiting, blurred vision, difficulty thinking clearly and short-term memory issues.

About UCHealth

UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.6 billion in community benefits including $762 million in uncompensated and charity care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz campus, UCHealth includes 37,000 employees, 15 acute-care hospitals and thousands of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska.

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In fiscal year 2025, UCHealth cared for 3 million patients and provided more than $1.6 billion in community benefits, including $762 million in uncompensated care for patients who could not afford to pay.

About UCHealth
UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz campus, UCHealth includes 37,000 employees, 15 acute-care hospitals and thousands of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska.

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The annual list highlights hospitals across seven specialties: cancer, heart care, endocrinology, neurology, orthopedics, pulmonology and gastrointestinal care. The 2026 rankings include 1,375 hospitals nationwide.

UCHealth’s nationally ranked hospitals and their recognized specialties include:

• UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora: cancer, heart care, endocrinology, neurology, orthopedics, pulmonology and gastrointestinal care.
• UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins: cancer, heart care, endocrinology, neurology and gastrointestinal care.
• UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland: cancer, heart care, endocrinology and gastrointestinal care.
• UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central in Colorado Springs: gastrointestinal care.

The rankings are based on quality and patient experience scores from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, a nationwide survey of doctors and patients, and data from an independent third-party system.

About UCHealth

UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.6 billion in community benefits including $762 million in uncompensated and charity care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz campus, UCHealth includes 37,000 employees, 15 acute-care hospitals and thousands of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska.

Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 4 causes of death in the United States, respectively, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report. Studies show patients can experience better outcomes when care teams consistently follow evidence-based treatment guidelines.

Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest research- and evidence-based guidelines.

"These recognitions reflect our commitment to delivering the highest quality cardiovascular and emergency care," said Dr. James Caldwell, UCHealth Parkview chief medical officer. “From stroke and heart failure treatment to resuscitation, our physicians and care teams are dedicated to following the latest evidence-based guidelines to achieve the best possible outcomes for every patient. These awards demonstrate the expertise and teamwork our community can count on.”

UCHealth Parkview is recognized on the AHA Honor Roll for meeting specific criteria that improves medication adherence, providing early follow-up care and coordination, and enhancing patient education with the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to heart disease or stroke

This year, UCHealth Parkview received these American Heart Association achievement awards:

• Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus Achievement Award
• Get With The Guidelines® – Heart Failure Bronze Achievement Award
• Get With The Guidelines® – Resuscitation Gold Achievement Award (Adult)
• Get With The Guidelines® – Resuscitation Silver Achievement Award (Pediatric)
• Target: CPR Achievement Award (Adult)
• Target: Survival Achievement Award (Adult)
• Target: Heart Failure Optimal
• Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite
• Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll

“These awards reflect UCHealth Parkview's commitment to caring for people in their community who need cardiovascular care,” said Karen E. Joynt Maddox, M.D., MPH, chair of the American Heart Association Quality Oversight Committee. “By following the American Heart Association’s quality improvement protocols, Parkview can help advance our shared vision of better patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates — a win for patients, families and health care systems.”

Hayden, Colorado - UCHealth is expanding access to primary care services in Yampa Valley with this week's opening of UCHealth Primary Care – Hayden.

The clinic, located on the main level at 150 W. Jackson in the former Solandt Memorial Hospital, features two private exam rooms, a point-of-care lab and electrocardiogram (EKG) testing capabilities.

Internal medicine physician Kevin Borgerding will care for patients at the new clinic. He has been a resident of the Yampa Valley since 1994, previously cared for patients in Steamboat Springs and most recently at UCHealth Primary Care – Craig.

His strong commitment to longitudinal care has impacted countless patients.

“Access to primary care is important to the health of any community,” said Borgerding. “I’m excited to provide that care to adults in the entire Yampa Valley and beyond.”

Trevor Gann, mayor pro-tem of Hayden, agrees in local healthcare.

“This new clinic enhances the ability for residents of Hayden to remain in Hayden. It’s an added service that makes us less of a bedroom community and more of a full-fledge community,” said Gann. “There’s a lot of value in the partnership between UCHealth and the Town of Hayden – it enhances the resilience of this community, and we look forward to seeing where this goes in the coming years.”

UCHealth Primary Care - Hayden clinic is open Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Patients seeking appointments are encouraged to schedule via UCHealth’s My Health Connection patient portal or call the clinic at 970.875.2685.

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Located at UCHealth’s Boulder Health Center, the clinic allows patients local access to comprehensive hepatology and post-transplant services. For patients who require advanced services, including liver transplant evaluation, the Boulder clinic offers a direct pathway to UCHealth’s multidisciplinary transplant team at University of Colorado Hospital (UCH) on the Anschutz medical campus in Aurora, ensuring continuity of care across every stage of treatment.

"Expanding hepatology services in the Boulder region is about improving access and removing barriers so patients can be seen sooner and closer to home,” said Dr. James Burton, medical director of hepatology and liver transplant at UCHealth. “Early hepatology evaluation is critical because it gives us more opportunities to slow disease progression and explore treatment options and, when necessary, coordinate transplant evaluation at UCH before a patient's condition becomes too advanced.”

Liver disease impacts more than 4.5 million adults and is the ninth leading cause of death in the United States. UCHealth has performed more than 3,000 liver transplants and operates one of the nation's largest non-directed living donor transplant programs. UCHealth’s liver transplant program also reports better-than-expected mortality rates among patients on the liver transplant waiting list compared to national benchmarks, reflecting UCHealth's focus on early evaluation, timely treatment and coordinated care. The expansion into Boulder will further improve access to specialty liver care, helping patients connect with experts sooner and closer to home.

About UCHealth 

UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.6 billion in community benefits including $762 million in uncompensated and charity care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz campus, UCHealth includes 37,000 employees, 15 acute-care hospitals and thousands of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska. 

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Who is at risk?

Wildfire smoke contains particulate matter and harmful chemicals that can pose serious health risks, especially for older adults, children, pregnant individuals and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions. Even short-term exposure can cause eye and throat irritation and may lead to wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and exacerbation of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Dr. Lemery says when the air quality declines, visits to the ER can spike. He warns that people who do not have any pre-existing health conditions can still feel the impacts. 

“It’s also young healthy people we can see come into the ER. I’ve had a triathlete come in during a bad air quality day from wildfires and say, ‘I never knew I had asthma,’ and in fact, they don’t have asthma—they have reactive airway disease from the smoky air,” Lemery said. 

How to protect yourself

When air quality declines due to wildfire smoke, Lemery encourages people to take the following steps:

• Stay updated on air quality conditions.
• If you are close to an active wildfire, be ready to evacuate. Keep a 7-to-10 day supply of medications on hand along with copies of important documents.
• If you can see or smell smoke from fires in Colorado or elsewhere in the West, that means air quality is poor.
• Stay indoors with the windows closed.
• If you have underlying respiratory or cardiovascular disease, avoid exercising outdoors.
• If you have air filters in your home, use them.
• Seek medical attention if they experience shortness of breath and chest pain making it difficult to complete a full sentence. 

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Estes Park, Colo. – UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center (EVMC) has noted a rise in visits to the emergency department in recent weeks. 

The number of patients visiting the emergency department increased 43% when comparing the three-day Father’s Day weekend in 2025 to 2026. 

“Now that the hiking and tourist season is in full swing in Estes Park, visitors should give their body time to adjust to the higher elevation before enjoying the local area,” said Angela Haynes, a respiratory therapist at EVMC. She also noted that she has been seeing patients coming to the emergency department, complaining of shortness of breath. When at elevation, this can often be a sign of altitude sickness. 

Altitude sickness is preventable and treatable but advanced forms can lead to life-threatening concerns especially for those with chronic medical conditions. 

Estes Park, where EVMC is located, sits at 7,522 feet while nearby Rocky Mountain National Park reaches as high as 14,259 feet at the top of Longs Peak. The Alpine Visitor Center sits at 11,796 feet – more than two miles above sea level – along Trail Ridge Road. 

Visitors from lower elevations may experience the effects of altitude sickness if they do not allow themselves time to acclimate to the higher altitude. Even those living at higher elevations are not immune to the impacts of the condition. 

Altitude sickness, also called acute mountain sickness or AMS, occurs when a person travels to higher elevations beyond what their body is familiar with or too quickly before their body can adjust. At higher elevations, there is less atmospheric pressure and thus fewer oxygen molecules per square inch. This results in the body inhaling less oxygen with each breath. 

When severe, the condition can develop into fluid in the lungs and swelling of the brain. Both forms are extremely dangerous and require immediate medical attention. That does not, however, mean that less severe cases should be ignored. 

“The more severe forms of altitude sickness can develop into life-threatening conditions,” said Dr. Paige Machado, an emergency medicine physician at EVMC. “Recognizing initial signs and symptoms, such as headache, nausea and shortness of breath, can be resolved by descending to a lower altitude. Other tips we recommend are staying hydrated, avoiding heavy exertion until you have acclimated, limiting alcohol intake, and not going to higher elevations if you have symptoms.”

Signs of mild altitude sickness 

• Headache (the most common symptom).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fatigue and less energy than usual.
• Shortness of breath with exertion.
• Lightheadedness 
   

Call 911 if these more severe symptoms occur

• Extreme shortness of breath (inability to speak in full sentences or walk a short distance).
• Sudden or severe headache.
• Confusion.
• Slurred words.
• Abnormal walking. 
   

“There is no guaranteed way to predict who will develop altitude sickness,” said Machado. “We do know that people with chronic medical issues, especially underlying heart and lung conditions, are more susceptible. Those with less physical conditioning and the elderly are also at higher risk.” 

A 2025 study of hikers in the Andes, however, showed that up to 80% of people who once had AMS will develop it again when they repeat the rapid ascent in elevation. 

Preventing AMS involves staying well hydrated before arriving and while at elevation, allowing your body to adjust by not gaining more than 1,000 feet of elevation per day and sleeping at lower altitudes than the highest altitude traveled during that day. 

A person’s primary care doctor can prescribe the medication acetazolamide, branded as Diamox, that can be prescribed before coming to high altitude to limit symptoms. 

“It can be hard to wrap your head around just how high up we are in Estes Park,” said Machado. “I tell patients in the ED to imagine taking the length of a football field and turning it vertically. If you stack them end-to-end, we are just over 20 football fields up in the air.” 

Machado also tells people that technically, the only effective treatment for altitude sickness is going back down to a lower elevation. 

She stresses that mild symptoms can be treated with these recommendations. 

“Most importantly, don’t ignore more serious symptoms, because delaying medical evaluation and treatment can lead to life-threatening complications,” said Machado.

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A three-month pilot project on UCH’s Acute Care for the Elderly (ACE) unit uses lifelike robotic cats, dogs and birds designed to provide companionship and emotional support for patients with dementia and delirium-related symptoms.

“We immediately saw incredible responses,” said Becky Fehlig, nurse manager of the ACE unit at UCH. “Many of our patients’ moods change entirely once we bring in a pet for them. It’s really powerful to see.”

The robotic pets respond to touch, sound and interaction, mimicking behaviors of live animals while remaining safe and accessible in a hospital environment. Each patient receives their own pet and can keep them once they’re discharged.

The program is designed for patients with moderate to advanced dementia, particularly those who may be disoriented, anxious or at risk for delirium. Some patients tend to become agitated, distressed or even violent while in the hospital, requiring “sitters” or behavioral health technicians to help calm them down and ensure their safety.

Andrea Cervantes, a charge RN on the ACE unit, says robotic pets have already reduced the need for these interventions by creating calming moments, emotional reassurance and a sense of responsibility during what can often be a stressful hospital stay.

“We see patients who come in really agitated, confused and not talking much, until we bring in a pet,” said Cervantes. “These pets are making patients happy, so it’s making nurses happy, because they’re able to do something that brings joy to the patient.”

Richard Walker, a 74-year-old patient who was brought to UCH after wandering out of his retirement home for multiple hours, named his gray robotic cat “Stuffy.” His sister, Donna Delano, says the connection he was able to build with Stuffy has brought her family peace of mind as well.

“He’s talking. He’s interacting. He’s happy. He looks good. He looks healthier than when he came here. We were scared,” said Delano. “Thanks to that cat, I know that even when I can’t be here, he’s still happy.”

The ACE unit’s pilot project began on April 1 and has benefited dozens of patients so far. Because of the positive results and outcomes, UCHealth plans to expand access to the robotic pets throughout the hospital, including for post-anesthesia patients and those on other acute care units experiencing behavioral or dementia-related symptoms.

"At UCHealth, we are committed to finding innovative approaches that enhance patient care and improve outcomes," said Jen Rodgers, chief nursing officer at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital. "This pilot has proven that small interventions can make a significant difference in a patient’s experience. We’re thrilled by the results so far and are excited to bring this program to more patients across the hospital.”

“This recognition reflects the work happening across our system to create an environment where every patient feels respected, heard and safe,” said David Mafe, UCHealth’s chief diversity officer and vice president of human resources. “It’s not about a single program or policy - it’s about showing up consistently for patients and our community in ways that build trust and improve care.”

The designation follows a comprehensive review of each organization’s policies, practices, and patient experience. The HEI evaluates health systems on areas including nondiscrimination protections, staff training, patient services, employee benefits, and community engagement.

“Health care access for the LGBTQ+ community in 2026 is a tale of both important progress and dangerous setbacks," said Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign. “Even amid extraordinary pressure, many healthcare institutions are continuing to show up for LGBTQ+ patients and staff. Doctors want to take care of their patients in the best way they can. Even so, disinformation campaigns are having a real impact on people’s lives. It’s vital for all LGBTQ+ people to get the most accurate information we have on access to care across the country, and we are proud of the ways in which the HEI helps the community understand this.”

The Healthcare Equality Index is the nation’s leading benchmarking tool for evaluating LGBTQ+ inclusion in health care settings.

UCHealth will continue building on this work as part of its broader commitment to improving access, experience and outcomes for all patients.

About UCHealth

UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.6 billion in community benefits including $762 million in uncompensated and charity care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz campus, UCHealth includes 37,000 employees, 15 acute-care hospitals and thousands of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska.

Estes Park, Colo. – UCHealth announced today the promotion of Crystal Mecham to chief nursing officer at UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center  (EVMC). She will begin the role on June 21. 

Mecham has served UCHealth patients as a nursing house supervisor at UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins for more than four years while also managing a private practice in Boulder as its executive director. She previously worked as the CEO at Banner Surgery Center – Loveland and the CEO and clinical director for Arête Surgical Center in Johnstown. 

Mecham holds a master’s degree in nursing administration and a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, both from Excelsior College in Albany, N.Y. 

“As a healthcare leader with years of executive experience, Mecham will bring to this important role a commitment to patient care, a strong record of managing fiscal responsibilities, and a track record of implementing strategic goals,” said Vern Carda, president of EVMC. “As CNO, Mecham will focus on developing community relationships and hospital services while supporting our teams as we continue to integrate with the UCHealth system and all of the advanced medical care it offers.” 

Ben Hetrick has served as interim CNO at EVMC for the past year and helped guide a smooth shift into the UCHealth system. He will now take on a new role within the UCHealth affiliate services team. 

“We want to express our deepest gratitude to Ben Hetrick for stepping into the role of interim chief nursing officer for the previous year,” Carda said. “With a positive attitude and infectious smile that permeates throughout the hospital, Hetrick served as an integral role model for the staff to guide them through the transition into UCHealth with his leadership skills, problem-solving abilities and vast knowledge of nursing care and healthcare informatics.”

The procedure replaces the thumb joint with a small prosthetic ball joint to restore strength, mobility and function while reducing recovery time and post-surgical pain.

The first procedures were performed at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital by a team of hand surgeons who trained in France, Belgium and Switzerland to learn the surgical technique to install the prosthesis.

The Touch CMC1 Dual Mobility Trapeziometracarpal prosthesis has been used successfully in Europe since 2018 but only received conditional FDA approval in the U.S. in 2025. UCHealth is one of only four medical centers participating in the post-approval clinical trial to monitor outcomes in American patients.

“This is a game changer for patients with thumb arthritis,” said Dr. Louis Catalano, hand surgeon and professor of orthopedics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. “The new prosthesis allows patients to recover in a matter of weeks, not months. They also experience less pain during recovery and regain more thumb movement and strength afterwards.”

Thumb arthritis affects millions of Americans, especially women older than 40. The condition can make everyday tasks such as opening jars, turning doorknobs, texting or gripping objects painful and difficult. Traditional surgical treatment, thumb CMC arthroplasty, involves removing a small wrist bone called the trapezium and reconstructing the joint using tendon tissue, which often requires lengthy and painful recovery.

“Patients want to return to living their lives as quickly as possible,” said Dr. Fraser Leversedge, chief of hand surgery at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital. “Since we began this new procedure, we’re seeing similar outcomes to what we’ve seen in Europe: better outcomes in a few weeks than we’d normally see in a few months.”

Traceyrené Martz Delgado had her surgery in February, becoming the first patient in the western U.S. to receive the implant in her right thumb. She says the procedure changed her life.

“It’s been amazing,” Delgado said of the procedure and her recovery. “After many years, I can finally work, hold my grandson and ride my e-bike without pain or limitations.”

Rather than a cast or a hard splint, which is standard after a traditional thumb CMC arthroplasty, Delgado left her procedure with her hand wrapped in gauze and an ace bandage and only needed two pills of prescribed pain medication.

Delgado plans to get the same procedure done on her left thumb in the future.

Aurora, Colo. – UCHealth is donating $260,150 to Athletics & Beyond following the success of its annual Healthy Swings charity home run derby, an event that brought together professional football players, community leaders and local youth for a day of competition and purpose. Athletics & Beyond is a Denver-based youth mentoring organization that uses sports to empower young people to build confidence, develop leadership skills and succeed in school and life. 

“Healthy Swings is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when our community comes together around a shared purpose,” said Bill Smith, director, brand partnership activation at UCHealth. “We’re proud to partner with Athletics & Beyond to expand opportunities for young people across Denver - from mentorship and education to exposure to careers they may not have otherwise considered.”

The event featured Denver football players Alex Singleton, Will Lutz, Courtland Sutton and their teammates, who stepped up to the plate to drive donations with every swing. For each hit, UCHealth contributed between $100 and $20,000 

Courtland Sutton led the field as this year’s home run derby winner by hitting two home runs in the championship round. 

“It’s an honor to compete for something bigger than the game,” said Sutton. “Anytime I get a chance to come out here—whether I win or not—to come out here and contribute to a cause, it’s a blessing. Athletics & Beyond is doing important work, and we’re proud to support their mission.” 

Beyond the competition, the day also provided hands-on experiences for students from Athletics & Beyond. Participants had the opportunity to step into sports-related roles, from on-field reporting to working in the media booth, offering a behind-the-scenes look at potential career paths in athletics and media. 

‘We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with UCHealth on this opportunity,” said Narcy Jackson, executive director, Athletics & Beyond. “Funds raised through Healthy Swings will support our mentoring programs, helping to expand access to academic support, leadership development and sports-based enrichment for youth across metro Denver.” 

Each year, UCHealth selects a different nonprofit to benefit from Healthy Swings, reinforcing its commitment to community health and well-being. UCHealth has donated more than $1M to several local and national organizations. Previous charity partners include Freedom Service Dogs, Next Chapter, Food for Thought Denver, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Feeding Colorado, Gold Crown Foundation and the American Cancer Society.

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Aurora, Colo. (April 9, 2026) – Neurosurgery experts with CU Anschutz performed Colorado’s first implanted brain‑computer interface (BCI) surgery at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital marking a significant advance for patients with neurological injury or disease. Commonly known as BCIs, the implanted technology can restore lost motor and sensory function by translating brain signals into actions for people with paralysis or neurodegenerative movement disorders. 

The 41-year-old UCHealth patient who underwent the groundbreaking surgery was in an accident approximately 10 years ago that paralyzed him from the neck down. Now, the implanted device will record and interpret his brain’s electrical signals, learning the relationship between the brain’s activity and his intended behavior. This will allow him to regain function and independence through external devices like controlling a robotic arm and using a computer. The research team will also stimulate sensory areas of his brain to restore sensation, aiming to help the patient feel his hand again for the first time since his injury.

What makes this surgery especially unique is where in the brain the device was placed. The physicians are among the first in the world to implant the technology in higher‑level areas of the brain that allow for more natural and complete sensory and motor control. This approach allows doctors to help restore function in a more complete way, and also allows for rare insight into how the brain turns thoughts into actions.

“This surgery is an important step forward not only for this patient but for neuroscience as a whole,” said Daniel Kramer, MD, assistant professor of neuroscience at the CU Anschutz School of Medicine and a neurosurgeon at UCHealth. “While most BCI procedures focus only on purely motor regions, implanting this device in higher‑level brain areas will offer new insights into how the human brain works during everyday thinking and movement.”

Shaping the future of neurological treatment 

The BCI device will remain implanted for many years, allowing the physicians and researchers to study how brain signals represent complex cognitive tasks, as well as how they change from day to day and respond to stimulation. By gathering unprecedented, detailed data on higher‑level brain functions – such as learning rules, planning, decision‑making, and turning thoughts into action – they aim to lay the groundwork for future treatments for not just pure motor control, but cognition as it relates to control of actions. The hope is that this research will eventually inform new therapies for conditions that affect cognitive control, such as mood disorders or dementia, expanding the potential of brain‑computer interfaces beyond paralysis alone.

“Being able to both perform this surgery and collect and analyze long‑term data from unique areas of the brain places CU Anschutz and UCHealth at the forefront of brain‑computer interface research,” said Luke Bashford, PhD, assistant adjunct professor of neuroscience and neurotechnology at the CU Anschutz School of Medicine. “Movement and cognition are uniquely linked. With this research program, we will begin to investigate the ways in which the brain generates and governs these processes.”

Access to advanced research and the possibility of regaining lost abilities  

By offering this advanced brain‑computer interface study in Colorado, UCHealth and CU Anschutz are bringing a leading-edge opportunity closer to home for patients with spinal cord injuries, neurodegenerative conditions and cognitive challenges. Patients across the Rocky Mountain region now have access to participate in research that could help shape the future of neurological care by developing more innovative treatment options. 

The research is supported by equipment and funding from Blackrock Neurotech and conducted under a consortium led by Richard Anderson, PhD, at Caltech, with Charles Liu, MD, PhD, at the University of Southern California. To learn more about participating in this BCI study, please contact the study team directly by emailing luke.bashford@cuanschutz.edu.

To learn more about other neurological treatment options available at UCHealth, visit UCHealth Neurosurgery.

Estes Park, Colo. – Every second counts when treating a stroke. 

With this urgency in mind, UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center (EVMC) has introduced telestroke services in its emergency department, transforming care for the Estes Park community. Telestroke connects the local EVMC care team with a virtual neurologist 24/7, enabling rapid diagnosis and treatment for patients.

“The telestroke service enhances collaboration between our local care team and an acute-care neurologist, allowing faster, more thorough care for patients,” said April Kendall, associate nurse manager in EVMC’s emergency department.

Strokes happen when there is a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, which can be caused by a blockage of a blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. Reductions in oxygen and nutrients to the brain can cause cell death.

In the U.S., more than 795,000 people have a stroke each year. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strokes are the leading cause of long-term disability, with some of the most common outcomes being partial paralysis, slurred speech, reduced mobility and death. Although most strokes happen in patients 65 and older, the number of strokes is on the rise in younger patients.

“Every minute a stroke goes untreated can lead to permanent brain injury, and our telestroke service allows us to act quickly, even from a distance,” said Dr. Kelsey Eklund, a UCHealth neurologist with the telestroke service and assistant professor of neurology at the University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine. “By shortening the time to evaluation and treatment, we help ensure all patients receive high-quality care that can dramatically improve outcomes, recovery and long-term quality of life.”

With the combined expertise of emergency physicians, nurses and now a virtual neurologist, EVMC’s team can diagnose strokes and start treatment within minutes, maximizing patient recovery and minimizing lasting effects.

“The addition of telestroke services will make us more efficient, allowing us to evaluate, diagnose, treat and transfer patients to a higher level of care more quickly,” said Kendall.

In 2025, EVMC received 45 patients in the emergency department who were evaluated and transferred for higher-level neurological care. In 2026, that number is already at 13, highlighting the growing need for efficient diagnoses and treatment.

“The neat thing about telestroke services is having the neurologist right at the bedside getting firsthand information from the patient and family,” said Dr. John Meyer, an emergency physician with UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center. “The technology of the tablet is set up so the neurologist can do a physical exam alongside the nurse and emergency physician. This also provides a faster diagnosis and treatment plan, which saves neurons in the brain.”

To help Estes Valley residents identify the signs of a stroke, EVMC is offering a free B.E. F.A.S.T. magnet at community events, or residents may pick one up at the hospital main lobby Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information about strokes, visit the UCHealth stroke page.

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Aurora, Colo. (March 30, 2026) – When the Colorado Rockies step up to bat at Coors Field on Friday, a big swing could mean more than another run on the scoreboard. For each home run that strikes the “Hit the Mitt” banner in left field or lands in the left-field tunnel, UCHealth will donate $5,000 to Athletics & Beyond, a Denver-based youth mentoring program that uses sports to empower young people to succeed.

“Sports is the entry point that gets them in the door,” said Narcy Jackson, founder of Athletics & Beyond. “Once they’re engaged, we channel their enthusiasm for competition into lessons about hard work, self-discovery and perseverance. We focus on supporting their academic progress through tutoring, developing life and workforce skills and exploring future career paths.”

Students at Athletics & Beyond can train and compete in a variety of sports, including football, baseball, boxing, wrestling, tumbling and track and field. While sports are central to the Athletics & Beyond identity, its approach also emphasizes academic achievement, exposure to career pathways and equipping students with the tools and mindset needed for long-term success.

“We have had some kids come through this program and actually make it to the NFL,” said Rod Rogers, founder of athlete strategy and former professional football player. “But we also have many other alumni who have used the hard work, discipline and habits they learned here to be competitive in other industries and build great careers as teachers, engineers, businessmen or doctors.”

Each year, UCHealth selects a new nonprofit beneficiary for the “Hit the Mitt” challenge, focusing on organizations that support Coloradans in need. Last season, Rockies players hit the target four times, raising $20,000 for Freedom Service Dogs.

“We’re proud to partner with an organization that is making an impact on the young people in our community,” said Manny Rodriguez, chief marketing, experience and customer officer at UCHealth. “Hit the Mitt is one of many ways we collaborate with the Rockies to give back, and we’re excited to see how many times players can hit a home run for Athletics & Beyond this season.”

About UCHealth 

UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.3 billion in community benefits including $570 million in uncompensated care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz Medical Campus, UCHealth includes 37,000 employees, 15 acute-care hospitals and thousands of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska. 

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The  Ion robotic-assisted platform enhances traditional bronchoscopy procedures by combining robotic navigation with three-dimensional imaging of a patient’s lungs. Using a CT scan to create a detailed 3D airway map, physicians can guide a thin robotic catheter deep into the lungs to locate and biopsy suspicious nodules.

Nodules are small masses of dense tissue, typically about an inch in size, that appear in imaging tests as white spots. Most are non-cancerous.

Dr. Joshiah Gordon, an interventional pulmonologist with Pueblo Pulmonary Associates, said the technology represents a significant advancement in the ability to diagnose lung disease earlier and more accurately.

“Robotic bronchoscopy allows us to reach very small nodules that were previously difficult or sometimes impossible to access,” Dr. Gordon said. “By combining detailed CT imaging with robotic precision, we can guide the bronchoscope directly to the area of concern and obtain tissue samples with a much higher level of accuracy.”

One challenge in traditional bronchoscopy procedures involves a concept known as “divergence,” where the airway map created from a CT scan may not perfectly match the patient’s anatomy during the procedure. The Ion system uses advanced shape-sensing technology that significantly reduces this difference, helping physicians maintain accurate navigation inside the lungs.

The system also uses an ultra-thin robotic catheter that can maneuver through the smallest airways of the lung. Once the catheter reaches the target area, physicians can lock it in position and obtain multiple biopsy samples without the instrument shifting.

Traditional bronchoscopy procedures diagnose lung nodules about 75 percent to 80 percent of the time. ION robotic bronchoscopy can increase that accuracy to roughly 90 percent to 95 percent, Dr. Gordon said.

“Being able to lock the catheter in place allows us to take several precise biopsies from the same area without losing our position,” Dr. Gordon said. “That stability reduces variability during the procedure and greatly improves our ability to obtain an accurate diagnosis.”

Early detection plays a critical role in improving lung cancer outcomes. Lung cancer often does not cause noticeable symptoms until the disease has advanced, making early diagnosis difficult.

“When lung cancer is detected at stage one or stage two, we can start talking about cure rather than simply treatment,” Dr. Gordon said. “Technology like this helps us identify and biopsy smaller nodules earlier, which can make a meaningful difference for patients.”

The addition of robotic bronchoscopy technology also means patients in southern Colorado can receive advanced diagnostic procedures close to home.

“These robotic bronchoscopy systems are still relatively new and not widely available,” Dr. Gordon said. “Having this capability here in Pueblo allows patients across southern Colorado to receive advanced lung diagnostics without having to travel long distances.”

The Ion system has the capacity to treat approximately 10 patients per week at UCHealth Parkview Medical Center.

If a biopsy confirms cancer, patients are referred to specialists who may include medical oncology, radiation oncology and thoracic surgery depending on the stage of disease. If a nodule is benign, patients continue follow-up care with pulmonary specialists to monitor or treat the underlying condition.

Dr. Gordon is board certified in interventional pulmonology and has been performing advanced bronchoscopic procedures since 2008. He is currently the only physician in southern Colorado with board certification in interventional pulmonology and serves as the director of pulmonary and advance bronchoscopy at UCHealth Parkview Medical Center.

For patients, Dr. Gordon said the ultimate goal is simple.

“Patients who learn they have a suspicious lung nodule should not have to wait months for answers,” he said. “With this technology, we can often reach those nodules sooner, obtain tissue safely and quickly provide patients with clear answers about what comes next.”

History of the UCHealth Transplant Program

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Fort Collins, Colo. (Jan. 17, 2026) – Colorado State women’s basketball and UCHealth teamed up today for the seventh annual Fight Like a Ram game — a tradition that has become one of the most powerful and emotional moments of the season for players, patients, families and fans alike. 

This year’s game honored UCHealth cancer warriors whose names were worn proudly on the backs of CSU players’ jerseys, replacing the athletes’ own names as a symbol of strength, solidarity and hope. 

Colorado State is the only university program in the nation that replaces athlete jersey names with the names of cancer warriors in this meaningful and deeply personal way. 

CSU finished this meaningful game especially strong, topping San Jose State 75-60 for the win. 

Despite the intensity of the game, the heart of the day came after the final buzzer. Players and cancer warriors met at center court, embracing in a celebration filled with smiles, photos, gratitude and moments that families described as unforgettable. 

"This is literally the coolest thing, the most important thing, that Colorado State does," head coach Ryun Williams told the players earlier in the week. 

For many of the patients and their loved ones, today offered a moment of joy and recognition amid difficult journeys — a reminder that their fight is shared and seen by an entire community. 

MEN’S FIGHT LIKE A RAM 
The CSU men’s basketball UCHealth Fight Like a Ram game is scheduled for 7 p.m. Feb. 7 at Moby Arena vs. San Jose State. Tickets can be purchased on CSURams.com/Tickets. 

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 “At UCHealth, our mission is to provide world-class care to every community we serve,” said Dr. David Williams, president and CEO of UCHealth Medical Group. “With Douglas County and neighboring areas experiencing rapid growth, we are expanding our services in Littleton to ensure that residents have access to high-quality care right in their own community.”

The UCHealth Littleton Medical Center, located in the former Colorado Pulmonary Intensivists (CPI) space, will feature a state-of-the-art pulmonology clinic and an expanded sleep lab, designed to diagnose and treat a wide range of respiratory and sleep disorders with the latest medical technologies. Later this year, the center will introduce a specialized pulmonary lung nodule clinic in partnership with UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital, bringing even more advanced care options to the community.

UCHealth is also pleased to welcome CPI providers Drs. Erin Riggle, Kelly Greene and Robert Ballard, along with nurse practitioners Alecia Brynda and Leah Magestro, to the organization. Their continued dedication to caring for patients in the Littleton area ensures continuity while expanding access to trusted providers close to home.

 “We are thrilled to become part of UCHealth and continue caring for our Littleton patients,” said Dr. Kelly Greene. “By joining UCHealth, our patients will gain access to expanded services at Littleton Medical Center, all while maintaining the trusted relationships they’ve built with our team over the past 15 years.”

 The new medical center is expected to serve more than 7,000 patients in its first year, offering convenient features such as online appointment scheduling and secure access to medical records through UCHealth’s patient portal. Patients will experience a personalized approach to care, with services tailored to meet their unique health needs.

 As part of its ongoing mission, UCHealth continues to invest in affordable care, behavioral health initiatives and workforce development—strengthening Colorado’s health care infrastructure and supporting the well-being of local residents.

Greeley, Colo. (Jan. 8, 2026) – Grace Taylor, a key leader in northern Colorado’s health care landscape for nearly 20 years, has been named the next president of UCHealth Greeley Hospital. 

Taylor will assume the role Feb. 1, becoming the hospital’s second president and succeeding Marilyn Schock, who announced her retirement in November after a distinguished career in health care leadership. 

“Grace combines a genuine dedication to patients with strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Kevin Unger, CEO of UCHealth’s Northern Colorado Region. “She will continue the hospital’s legacy of outstanding care, supporting a team that is passionate about improving lives.” 

Since 2019, Taylor has served as vice president of operations for UCHealth’s Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins and Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she frequently served as incident commander for both hospitals, ensuring the continued delivery of exceptional care while prioritizing patient and staff safety. In recent years, she has overseen major expansion projects at both hospitals. 

Taylor joined PVH in 2007 and has held local, regional and system roles in business and strategy development, community outreach and physician recruitment. She began her career in health care in 1999 as a clinical laboratory technologist. She earned a Master of Business Administration in health care administration from the University of Colorado Denver and a Bachelor of Science in microbiology/biochemistry from the University of Victoria in British Columbia, Canada. 

“I am honored to join this remarkable hospital and contribute meaningfully to the health and well-being of the Greeley and Weld County communities,” Taylor said. “I look forward to learning from and working alongside this talented team to help shape a future that reflects our shared commitment to delivering the highest quality care.” 

Greeley Hospital opened in July 2019 and has experienced significant growth, increasing inpatient bed capacity by more than 70 percent, from 51 to 88 licensed beds. Recent additions include a 12-bed progressive care unit, a 20-bed acute care unit, three intensive care unit beds and two additional labor, recovery and postpartum beds in the birth center. Other projects have added operating rooms, a second emergency trauma bay and expanded the hospital’s kitchen and cafeteria. 

Construction is underway to expand the emergency department by adding nine exam rooms and three intake rooms. The project is scheduled for completion this summer. 

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Just nine minutes later, at 1:10 a.m., UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central in Colorado Springs welcomed baby girl Bultez, daughter of Carina and Corbin Bultez. She is the couple’s first child and will join two Golden Retriever siblings.

Additional UCHealth New Year’s babies include:

• UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital in Longmont welcomed Vellah Johnson at 1:18 a.m. She is the daughter of Angelina Villarreal and Tyrone Johnson.
• UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora welcomed Avila Aguilar at 5:25 a.m. He is the son of Rosalyn and Miguel Aguilar.
• UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland welcomed Jameson Wilder Egli, born at 12:14 p.m. He is the son of Rachel and Jordan Egli.

These joyful arrivals highlight the dedication and compassion of UCHealth’s team members, who are privileged to help families celebrate life’s most treasured moments. With every new birth, UCHealth continues its mission to provide outstanding care and support to Colorado’s growing families. In 2025, UCHealth hospitals delivered 18,365 babies. Additional information about UCHealth can be found here.

Fort Collins, Colo. (Dec. 23, 2025) – Santa Claus made a very special stop this week to visit some of the tiniest patients at UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins. These little ones aren’t quite ready to leave the hospital, so Santa brought the holiday cheer to them. 

With Mrs. Claus at his side, Santa spent Monday morning spreading joy and posing for photos with babies in PVH’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Babies cared for in this unit are often born prematurely – sometimes as early as 27 weeks gestation – or face challenges such as respiratory issues, infections, low blood sugar, or jaundice. They often need extra help breathing, regulating their temperature and feeding. 

This year, Santa visited 24 babies in the unit, including one named Holly, another named Nikolas and two sets of twins. 

Also known as Santa Moose, Bill Shattuck has been donning a red suit and white beard since the 1980s. For the past several years, his holiday stops have included UCHealth hospitals throughout northern Colorado. His visits help families celebrate their babies’ first Christmas even when they can’t be home. 
 

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“When the initiative launched, more than 380,000 Colorado residents were not receiving the mental health care they needed,” said Elizabeth B. Concordia, UCHealth president and CEO. “We knew we had to take a bold step to help address this growing problem. Behavioral health is essential to overall health and today, our patients have access to numerous outpatient options, virtual behavioral health services, new inpatient behavioral health units and interventions to help prevent suicides and unnecessary arrests.”

One of UCHealth’s most impactful investments was to integrate behavioral health into primary care clinics. To date, licensed behavioral health specialists are embedded into 62 primary care clinics, growing to 65 by year end. These specialists work hand-in-hand with primary care physicians to provide immediate resources to patients. To date, more than 204,000 visits have taken place.

“At UCHealth, integrating behavioral health into primary care reflects our commitment to caring for all our patients’ needs, both physically and mentally,” said Elicia Bunch, UCHealth’s vice president of behavioral health. “We know that individuals with behavioral health conditions in our communities often do not get necessary treatment. This approach brings mental and physical health together in a familiar setting and helps reduce the stigma and barriers that have kept too many patients from getting the help they need.”

John, 77, is a patient at a UCHealth primary care clinic in northern Colorado. About six months ago, he began experiencing new symptoms and brought them up during a routine visit with his physician. Recognizing John’s need for additional support, the physician immediately connected him with the clinic’s licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Working together, they developed a care plan that combined therapy and medication to address John’s concerns. The integrated approach made a meaningful difference.

“The process was seamless,” said John. “Having my trusted primary care provider connect me with someone in the same office allowed me to get help quickly, without requiring me to get a referral, go to a different location or navigate the insurance coverage process. I feel so much better and I’ve been telling my friends, many of whom are also struggling, about how quick and easy it is to get help.”

Additional key milestones in UCHealth’s behavioral health expansion:

• In 2023, UCHealth increased the number of psychiatric beds in the state by opening a brand new 40 bed inpatient unit at University of Colorado Hospital. Just over 1,200 patients have received specialized care in this unit.
• In December 2025, UCHealth will open a new 50-bed inpatient behavioral health unit at Poudre Valley Hospital, increasing capacity to care for approximately 500 additional patients per year.
• UCHealth’s Center for Dependency, Addiction and Rehabilitation (CeDAR) now accepts major insurance plans, increasing access to residential and outpatient programs. Since late 2019, CeDAR has seen an 85% increase in outpatient visits and a 60% increase in residential services.
• UCHealth clinicians now partner with nine law enforcement agencies to respond to behavioral health crises in the community. Of the more than 14,000 calls handled since November 2022, over 85% were resolved without arrest or emergency department visits.
• UCHealth has grown virtual behavioral health services, expanding access to care across the state. Since 2019, over 430,000 requests for services have been received.
• UCHealth established a virtual behavioral health group therapy program for patients who need higher levels of support in rural communities and to date 1,400 patients have received care through this program.
• UCHealth conducts over 1.2 million suicide risk screenings annually, helping to identify and support high-risk individuals by connecting them with the right levels of care.
• UCHealth has opened three behavioral health specialty clinics offering electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), Esketamine and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) treating major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and other complex behavioral health diagnoses.

“We’ve seen the transformative impact of these expanded services firsthand,” said Dr. Andrew Sylvester, psychiatrist and medical director of the virtual behavioral health group therapy program. “Our virtual behavioral health group therapy program can admit patients from anywhere in the state and of the almost 1,400 patients treated in our various groups, we have had patients from Trinidad, Julesburg, Craig and other rural locations who would have otherwise had limited access to group programming. In just over three years, we’ve gone from offering a few groups to patients at risk for hospitalization to 17, providing human connection, education and support.”

UCHealth will continue to expand behavioral health access for patients in the coming year and is partnering with CU Anschutz and Children’s Hospital Colorado on the CU Anschutz Campus Mental Health Collaborative. Funded by the Anschutz Foundation, the collaborative is focused on merging research with clinical care to further improve mental health care across the state.

UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital's new inpatient unit

[More tips on staying healthy during cold and flu season] 

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Estes Park, Colo. (Dec. 1, 2025) – Today, Estes Park Health (EPH) joins UCHealth’s network of hospitals and clinics. For 50 years, EPH has provided excellent care for people throughout the Estes Valley. This care will continue, now as part of UCHealth, a Colorado-based nonprofit health system. 

“We are excited to welcome Estes Park Health and its talented providers and staff to the UCHealth family,” said Elizabeth B. Concordia, UCHealth president and CEO. “We have a long history of collaboration in Estes Park, and this partnership reinforces our commitment to excellent patient care close to home.” 

Now known as UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center (EVMC), a name requested by the Park Hospital District (PHD) Board of Directors to reflect the care provided throughout the entire valley, the hospital and its services will continue to improve lives in the Estes Valley and surrounding areas. EPH staff are now employed by UCHealth, ensuring continuity of care for patients with the health care providers they have come to know and trust. 

“This year marks 50 years of health care in the Estes Valley. I can’t think of a better way to embark on the next 50 years than by joining UCHealth,” said Vern Carda, president of EVMC. “This not only gives us financial stability and additional access to resources and subject matter experts, but also assistance in recruiting and retaining staff and providers, and importantly, continued access to health care for our patients. I’m grateful to the entire Estes Park community for their patience during this process and for entrusting our staff and providers with their health.” 

The close of the transaction and transition to EVMC comes after the PHD and Estes Valley residents overwhelmingly voted (80.3%) in 2023 to authorize EPH to enter negotiations with a Colorado-based nonprofit health system. 

A new board of directors has been created to oversee the nonprofit hospital. Their responsibilities include overseeing medical staff credentialing, patient quality and safety, and recommending the budget of EVMC to UCHealth’s Board of Directors. The board members include: 

• Stephen Alper, Estes Park resident and vice chairman of PHD Board of Directors 
• Janet Zeschin, Estes Park resident and secretary of PHD Board of Directors 
• Grace Taylor, vice president of operations, UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital and UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies 
• Kevin Unger, president and CEO of UCHealth’s Northern Colorado Region 
• David Batey, Estes Park resident and former PHD Board of Directors chairman 
• Sue Cooper, Estes Park resident, retired pharmacist and chair of Estes Park Health Foundation 
• Christina Kraft, Estes Park resident, market president of Bank of Colorado Estes Park and chair of the Estes Park Economic Development and Workforce Council

UCHealth already offers community programs in Estes Park, such as the Aspen Club, to improve the long-term health of Estes Park residents. Students at Estes Park High School currently receive CPR training and heart-health education from UCHealth’s Healthy Hearts and Minds program, and UCHealth provides family medicine, cancer, cardiology, urology and other clinics in the town. 

“I’ve been fortunate to know the Estes Park community and many of its residents for decades. It brings me great joy that through this partnership, UCHealth will continue caring for this special part of Colorado for years to come,” said Unger. “We can’t wait to support not only the patients, but the clinical, operational and administrative teams who make excellent health care possible every day.” 
 

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Longmont, Colo. (Nov. 17, 2025) – UCHealth is the first health system in Colorado to offer contrast-enhanced mammography, an advanced imaging technology that launched this month at the UCHealth Breast Diagnostic Center at Longs Peak Medical Center. This innovation marks a major leap forward in breast cancer detection, especially for patients with dense breast tissue or inconclusive imaging findings.

Although mammography remains the gold standard method for reducing lives lost to breast cancer, not all women benefit equally from mammography, explained Dr. Elizabeth Vorhis, a breast radiologist with Advanced Medical Imaging Consultants and the medical director at the breast diagnostic center.

“For women with dense breast tissue, 3D mammography and even breast ultrasound can still miss the earliest signs of breast cancer,” Vorhis said, adding that many of these women are offered additional imaging with breast MRI.

This is where contrast-enhanced mammography is now an option. It is an FDA-approved supplemental diagnostic tool that combines standard mammography equipment with an intravenous contrast agent to produce high-resolution images that can reveal cancers that traditional mammograms may miss.

On a traditional 3D mammogram image of a dense breast, the dense tissue shows up as bright white, cloudy swaths, and any abnormalities, such as cancerous lesions, may not be visible because they show up as solid white spots as well. However, on a contrast-enhanced mammogram image of the same dense breast, abnormalities are more pronounced because they show up as white areas of increased blood flow against a dark background of the normal dense tissue.

“By including an injection of IV contrast right before obtaining a traditional mammogram, we now have a test that is familiar, fast, well-tolerated, and can find early small cancers even in dense tissue, with an accuracy comparable to breast MRI,” Vorhis added. 

Contrast-enhanced mammography is also less expensive than MRIs and especially beneficial for patients with claustrophobia or pacemakers who can’t get MRIs. For many patients, it may offer peace of mind and a quicker path to diagnosis or reassurance.

Initially, the new contrast-enhanced mammography option at UCHealth’s Longmont location will be offered to patients who have already undergone imaging that was inconclusive or who require supplemental screening due to risk factors. These patients will be contacted directly by the breast diagnostic center. Broader referral access is expected to expand in 2026.

This program was made possible through a generous donation to the UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital Foundation from a local couple that is committed to improving health care access in Colorado, paired with an investment by UCHealth.

Boulder County residents Claire and Richard Padgett said they quickly recognized the importance of having access to this new capability close to home for women living in northern Colorado and the life-saving impact it could have.

“We are delighted to support the advancement of contrast-enhanced mammography to allow women the opportunity to detect breast cancer as early as possible,” Claire Padgett added.

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Note to media: B-roll from the event is available for use and can be found here.
 

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From expanding preventive care and mental health support to fighting hunger, providing housing and addressing financial stability, these programs are designed to make lasting impacts in the communities they serve.

“UCHealth is honored to partner with organizations that are breaking down barriers and creating healthier futures for Coloradans,” said Christina Hixson, UCHealth’s senior director of partnerships and community benefits. “These grants are more than funding, they’re investments in stability, opportunity and long-term wellness for individuals and families across our state.”

The funding will support community clinics, outreach programs, mental health services, food assistance and transportation support, improving access to essential services and care for underserved populations. It will also strengthen programs that provide rental assistance, shelter, education and workforce development, helping families prevent eviction and secure financial independence.

Awards range from $1,000 to $30,000, with recipients selected for their innovative, community-driven solutions that improve health and well-being.

Recipients in metro Denver and Boulder county were awarded $287,000 in grants and include:

·         Cultivate- supporting the Vets Go program that provides no cost, non-emergency medical transportation to Veterans and their families

·         Rise Against Suicide - providing free, immediate access to therapy for youth ages 19 and under who are at risk of suicide

·         The Gathering Place- offering one-stop, low-barrier access to health, nutrition, financial, and housing support for low-income and marginalized communities

·         City Year Denver – supporting Colorado Youth Mental Health Corps and Social Work Fellows program

Recipients in southern Colorado (El Paso and Pueblo counties) were awarded $218,000 in grants and include:

·         Food to Power - partnering with local supermarket in Colorado Springs to take in surplus healthy food and give it away to people in need through its No Cost Grocery locations in the city

·         Pueblo Cooperative Care Center - providing Pueblo County residents with access to food, clothing and other essential support services

·         Mt. Carmel Veteran Service Center - preventing homelessness among veterans through case management, employment assistance and vocational opportunities

·         National Alliance on Mental Illness (Colorado Springs) - expanding its school-based mental health program which helps youth recognize they are not alone in times of struggle and identifies sources of support

Recipients in northern Colorado (Larimer and Weld counties) were awarded $270,000 in grants and include:

·         Alliance for Suicide Prevention - offering outreach to engage high-risk and underserved populations

·         The Family Center / La Familia – providing onsite vision, hearing and oral health screenings

·         Weld Food Bank – supporting the Emergency Food Package (EFP) program

·         Food Bank for Larimer County - launching a senior nutrition pilot program

·         Fort Collins Rescue Mission - supporting Harvest Farm, a long-term residential recovery program

A full list of all grant recipients can be found here.

UCHealth is dedicated to improving lives in the communities it serves. Last year, UCHealth provided $1.3 billion in community benefits including $568 million in uncompensated care.

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Greeley, Colo. (Nov. 5, 2025) – UCHealth Greeley Hospital President Marilyn Schock announced this week that she will retire in February after serving northern Colorado for 40 years. 

“I often say that northern Colorado has some of the best health care in the country, and it has been an honor to be part of it for all these years,” Schock said. “While I will miss working with the phenomenal people at UCHealth and Greeley Hospital and their passion for improving lives, the time feels right to retire and begin discovering my next purpose.” 

Schock is a well-respected leader who is known for her integrity, putting patients first, a commitment to quality improvement and a love for serving the community, according to Kevin Unger, CEO of UCHealth’s Northern Colorado region. 

“Marilyn has built an incredible legacy in northern Colorado,” Unger said. “Thanks to her leadership, more people in our region now have access to the high-quality care they need to live healthier lives. She also has fostered a strong, patient-centered culture that supports staff members, physicians and advanced practice providers alike.” 

A graduate of Colorado State University, Marilyn began her health care career as an occupational therapist in Loveland in 1985. She served in leadership roles at Banner Health facilities, including chief executive officer at McKee Medical Center in Loveland, before joining UCHealth in 2014 as the chief operating officer of Medical Center of the Rockies in Loveland and Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins. 

Two years later, she was tapped to lead the design, construction and development of Greeley Hospital and the adjoining medical center. When the hospital opened in July 2019, approximately 400 employees were on staff, joined by hundreds of physicians and advanced practice professionals to bring a high level of care closer to home for UCHealth patients living in Greeley and Weld County. 

Since the doors opened, the hospital has seen notable growth as well. Staff and providers on the UCHealth Greeley Campus cared for patients during almost 9,000 admissions and observation visits, 43,000 emergency room visits, almost 200,000 outpatient visits and 764 births in fiscal year 2025. 

To meet the growing health care needs of the community, Schock has overseen several projects at the hospital that have increased access to care. The inpatient bed capacity has grown by more than 70 percent, from 51 to 88 licensed beds. This includes the opening of a 12-bed progressive care unit, a 20-bed acute care unit, three intensive care unit beds, and two additional labor, recovery and postpartum beds in the birth center. Other projects added operating rooms and a second emergency trauma bay and expanded the hospital’s kitchen and cafeteria. The hospital also recently launched a construction project that will expand the emergency department by nine exam rooms and three intake rooms by summer 2026. 

UCHealth will soon begin a search for the next president of Greeley Hospital. 

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LOVELAND, Colo. (Oct. 27, 2025) – UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies has once again earned national recognition for nursing excellence, achieving its fourth consecutive Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) – a distinction held by fewer than 10% of hospitals in the country. 

Confetti cannons and cheers erupted in a conference room full of staff and leadership Friday afternoon as David Marshall, chair of the ANCC Commission on Magnet Recognition, shared the news on a virtual call that the commission had voted unanimously to re-designate MCR. 

The Magnet Recognition Program is considered the gold standard for nursing excellence and quality patient care. To earn the designation, hospitals must undergo a rigorous evaluation process and demonstrate superior outcomes in patient care, nursing satisfaction, and clinical performance. 

Marshall congratulated the MCR team for several areas where the hospital outperforms national benchmarks, including: 

• Infection prevention and patient safety across all inpatient units 
• Patient experience, particularly in education and safety 
• Higher education, with 83% of MCR’s registered nurses holding a bachelor’s degree or higher 

MCR achieved its first Magnet designation in 2010, which included a two-year monitoring phase plus a four-year designation term. This was followed by re-designations in 2016, 2021 and now 2025. 

MCR Chief Nursing Officer Jessie Willard praised the team’s resilience and commitment to excellence, especially through the challenges of the past four years. 

“We can’t do what we do to provide patient care without every single person in this hospital,” Willard said, adding that only 10 percent of hospital in the United States earn Magnet designations. “Even though change has been constant, our resilience and grit has never wavered.” 

Since MCR’s last Magnet re-designation, the hospital has expanded critical care services, earned Level I Trauma Center status and launched the interventional program for thrombectomy stroke care, among other significant achievements that advance the care provided. The hospital is also preparing to open a new inpatient pavilion next year. 

Kevin Unger, president and CEO of UCHealth’s Northern Colorado Region, commended the team for maintaining a perfect record of Magnet designations since first becoming eligible in 2010. 

“You’re having an impact on our community,” Unger said. “When you look at what you’re achieving from a patient experience and clinical outcomes perspective, you should be very, very proud of what you’re doing. 

For MCR to sustain its Magnet designation involved a rigorous application process with extensive documentation of examples, evidence and data outcomes. The program requires the hospital to outperform national benchmarks in key areas such as patient satisfaction, nurse satisfaction, and health outcomes that demonstrate the impact of nursing care. As part of the evaluation, a three-day site visit with ANCC Magnet appraisers is conducted to validate the hospital's practices and performance. 

Currently, 18 Colorado hospitals – including four at UCHealth – hold a Magnet designation. UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital received six designations, most recently in 2023. UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital also received six designations, most recently in January 2025. UCHealth Memorial Hospital received its first designation in 2023. 

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Longmont, Colo. (Oct. 21, 2025) – Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, the electrifying head coach of the University of Colorado Buffaloes, sat shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow cancer survivors Monday afternoon to share experiences and inspiration. 

Coach Prime, who recently revealed that he is cancer-free following treatment for bladder cancer, connected with eight patients who have been receiving cancer care services at UCHealth Longs Peak Medical Center in Longmont. In a heartfelt roundtable session, the Colorado Buffaloes head coach shared his personal journey and listened as others opened up about their own battles, creating a rare and powerful moment of connection, resilience and hope. 

“I met a group full of men and women today that said, ‘No. Not me. I’m bigger than this. I’m better than this. I got this,” Coach Prime said after the gathering with the people he said are now his role models. “They fought cancer head-on, and they’re still fighting cancer head-on.” 

During the exchange, a UCHealth oncology nurse navigator asked everyone to write on a piece of paper what has helped them get through their cancer journey. Some chose Bible verses or mantras they have been living by while others gave nod to single words – like “warrior” and “love” – or the people in their lives who have been by their side. 

Community and connection are key when fighting cancer, Coach Prime said. 

“This is something that you can’t get through by yourself,” he said. “First of all, you’ve got to connect with the Lord in some type of way. But family, friends and loved ones as well as community play a vital role.” 

The Colorado Buffaloes play the Utah Utes in Salt Lake City on Saturday night. This is Sanders’ third season as the coach of the Buffaloes. 
 

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Medicare open enrollment: October 15 – December 7, 2025; plans begin January 1, 2026.

Medicare-eligible patients can receive in-network care at UCHealth through traditional Medicare and Medicare Supplement Plans. For 2026, UCHealth is in-network with the following Medicare Advantage plans:

• Select Health Medicare Advantage
• Aetna Medicare Advantage
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage
• Humana Medicare Advantage
• United Healthcare Medicare Advantage

Additionally, Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage is in-network for select UCHealth locations including University of Colorado Hospital in metro Denver and all UCHealth locations in Colorado Springs and Pueblo.

UCHealth is no longer in-network for Cigna Medicare Advantage (also known as Healthspring Medicare Advantage) or Devoted Health Medicare Advantage plans.

Connect for Health Colorado open enrollment: November 1 – January 15; plans begin January 1, 2026.

For Coloradans seeking comprehensive coverage that includes in-network access to all of UCHealth, CU Medicine, Intermountain Health and other affiliates, they can choose from the Select Health Value and Select Health Value CO Option plans. Select Health represents a collaborative effort between UCHealth and Intermountain Health, offering exceptional care and value.  Additionally, Anthem Pathway plans feature UCHealth and CU Medicine providers in their network.

UCHealth is not in-network with any Anthem Pathway Essentials plans. The Anthem Pathway Colorado Option is not available in metro Denver and Boulder counties this year.

In addition to Anthem Pathway and Select Health Value networks there are a few additional plans that include select UCHealth facilities in network:

Colorado Springs & Woodland Park

• Select Health Value*
• Anthem Pathway*
• Cigna Connect*
• Kaiser KP Select*
• Includes UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central and Memorial Hospital North, UCHealth Grandview Hospital and UCHealth Pikes Peak Regional Hospital

Pueblo

• Select Health Value*
• Anthem Pathway*
• Kaiser KP Select*
• Includes UCHealth Parkview Medical Center and UCHealth Parkview Pueblo West

Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley

• Select Health Value*
• Anthem Pathway*
• Cigna Connect*
• Includes UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital, UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies and UCHealth Greeley Hospital

Steamboat Springs

• Select Health Value*
• Anthem Pathway*
• Anthem Mountain Enhanced*
• Rocky Mountain Health Plans RMHP Valley*
• Includes UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center

The Connect for Health Colorado site can help individuals and families compare different health insurance plans and determine if they qualify for financial assistance.

For inquiries or clarifications regarding UCHealth's network coverage in these plans, please reach out to feedback@uchealth.org

*Includes Colorado Option plans for Select Health Value, Anthem Pathway, Cigna Connect, Kaiser KP Select, Anthem Mountain Enhanced and Rocky Mountain Health Plans RMHP Valley.Text goes here

“Every dollar of the Community Health Benefit Fund supports the health of our community, and this project is a perfect example of that fund in action,” said Karen Schneider, executive director of YVMCF. “Through the deployment of these AEDs, faster intervention can begin when a sudden cardiac arrest occurs and while first responders are in route. It was heartwarming to learn not only of the desire to be prepared should a medical emergency arise, but of these organizations’ willingness to assist others.”

“Early use of an AED during a sudden cardiac arrest can more than double a person’s chance of survival, making it one of the most critical links in the chain of survival,” said Julie McFadden, registered nurse and manager of trauma services at UCHealth Yampa Valley Medical Center. “In rural communities, ensuring access to AEDs and providing training in their use is a vital way we protect and care for one another, no matter where a cardiac emergency may occur.”

Owners of Backdoor Sports wanted an AED because they know the device can save lives.

“We’re in the business of adventure. Having an AED on site is no different than taking an avalanche beacon when you venture into the backcountry or making sure you have a throw rope when you’re on the river,” said Mike Welch, co-owner of Backdoor Sports. “With a history of heart disease in my family, I know the importance of having AEDs. UCHealth’s investment in these devices makes Steamboat Springs a stronger community.”

LiftUp Routt County applied for an AED to provide a safer environment for their clients, shoppers, staff, volunteers and donors.

“We’re a community hub that assists people of all ages. We want to be ready if an emergency strikes, and we are so grateful to UCHealth for choosing to improve the safety of our community,” said Sue Fegelein, executive director of LiftUp. “This is an amazing investment. These AEDs will provide so many with needed peace of mind and a plan of action in case of emergency.”

Forty-nine AEDs are being deployed though this impact initiative. Recipients include:

Steamboat

• Backdoor Sports
• Big Agnes
• Café Diva
• Christy Sports – Central Park
• Christy Sports – Gondola
• Elkstone Farm
• Elzo Rentals
• First Baptist Church
• Helm Eye Center
• Kinetic Energy Physical Therapy
• LiftUp Routt County
• Moving Mountains
• Mythology Distillery
• One-Stop Ski & Cycle
• Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp
• Precision Repair Service & Sales
• Rakta Hot Studio
• Replenish IV Therapies
• Resort Group/Mountain Resorts/Simply Steamboat/MR Realty
• Resort Group – Chateau Chamonix
• Resort Group – The Ranch
• Resort Group – Trappeur’s Crossing
• Revolve Wellness Studio
• Saddleback Ranch and Yee Haw Tubing Hill
• Ski Haus
• Ski Town Physical Therapy
• Sloop Enterprises
• Splash Hounds
• Steamboat Barbershop
• Steamboat Climbing Collective
• Steamboat Pilot & Today
• Steamboat Soccer Club
• Steamboat Sotheby’s International Realty
• Steamboat Springs Chamber
• Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club
• Sumovia Naturopathic Healthcare, Healing Path Acupuncture, Radiant Skin and Waxing Boutique, Elenz and Strom Law Firm
• Sweat Equity
• TBH Plumbing and Heating, Inc.
• The Timber Axe Lounge
• Tread of Pioneers Museum
• Warhorse Ranch
• Yampa Valley Bank

Clark

• North Routt Community Charter School Early Childhood Center
• Steamboat Lake Marina

Hayden

• Katina’s Wee Care Center
• Mission of Grace Baptist Church

Craig

• Barnes Outfitting, LLC
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Northwest Colorado
• Clever Cubs Child Care LLC

AED distribution is one of YVMCF’s 2025 impact initiatives. Other investments include partnerships with Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide (REPS) to provide suicide education and training and Routt County Riders to improve bicycle safety outreach.

All photos courtesy of UCHealth.

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“This is a major milestone for these nurses, as well as UCHealth,” said Jo Ann DelMonte, vice president of professional development and practice at UCHealth. “By investing in our employees’ education, we’re building a stronger nursing workforce at a time when the demand for health care workers has never been greater.”

The health care industry continues to see a steady increase in new jobs, despite overall job growth slowing nationwide. Employment in health care is projected to have the largest and fastest growth among all other industries, adding millions of jobs nationwide in the coming decade. This rapid growth comes as many hospitals are already struggling to meet the demand for nurses and other clinical roles.

Colorado currently faces a shortage of roughly 10,000 nurses, and that gap is expected to persist in the coming years. Programs like Ascend are designed to address these shortages while also providing employees with opportunities for career advancement and economic mobility.

The Ascend Program, offered in partnership with Guild Education, reduces financial barriers to education by providing tuition assistance to UCHealth employees looking to advance their careers in health care. The first graduating class of nurses includes former patient care technicians, medical assistants and others who received their education while continuing to work at UCHealth.

“We know the cost of higher education can be a barrier to growth for our employees. This program supports social mobility, enabling diverse candidates to access sustainable jobs to support their families.” David Mafe, chief diversity officer at UCHealth said.

Based on current enrollment, UCHealth expects an additional 40 nurses to graduate from Regis each year. More nursing programs are being added to Ascend, and it is projected around 200 nurses will graduate by 2030.

Yesenia Salomon, who completed the Regis program while working as a phlebotomist at the UCHealth Longmont Clinic, will begin her new role as an acute care nurse at UCHealth Long’s Peak Hospital in October.

“The Ascend Program has been an important step in reaching my long-term goals of becoming either a nurse practitioner or certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA).” Salomon said. “I’m excited to begin my new role as an acute care nurse because of the opportunities it provides for hands-on work helping patients.”

The first class of graduating nurses represents only a small fraction of the employees who are benefiting from the program. Others are pursuing or have received degrees and certifications in behavioral health, social work, respiratory therapy, phlebotomy, radiology, counseling and more.

About UCHealth

UCHealth is a nationally recognized nonprofit health system that pushes the boundaries of medicine through advanced treatments and clinical trials, improving health through innovation and providing unmatched patient care in the Rocky Mountain West. Investing $1.3 billion in community benefits, including $570 million in uncompensated care each year, UCHealth is Colorado’s largest Medicaid provider and dedicated to the communities it serves. With the region’s only adult academic medical center, University of Colorado Hospital on the CU Anschutz Medical Campus, UCHealth includes 35,000 employees, 14 acute-care hospitals and hundreds of physicians across Colorado, Wyoming and western Nebraska. 

The effective date was determined following the completion of regulatory and contractual work, and PHD public comment sessions, clearing the way for the partnership to officially begin.

“We’re excited to have reached this milestone as partnering with UCHealth ensures the long-term stability of Estes Park Health and our ability to provide excellent health care to the residents of and visitors to the Estes Valley,” said Vern Carda, CEO of Estes Park Health. “I want to thank the community for its support during this process.”

On Dec. 1, EPH’s current employees will become UCHealth employees, and both organizations are committed to minimizing any disruptions to patient care.

“The close collaboration between UCHealth and EPH has been beneficial for decades. Through floods, wildfires, a pandemic and financial challenges, we have worked together to maintain access to excellent health care,” said Kevin Unger, president and CEO of UCHealth’s northern Colorado region. “We look forward to welcoming their employees and providers to UCHealth and continuing to serve the Estes Valley community.”

“While positive changes will begin to occur at EPH and for our employees and providers with new benefits and other options, our focus remains on our patients,” said Carda. “Estes Park is a special place, and I want to commend our staff and providers for their dedication to caring for this community.”

Over the past year, Parkview physicians and nurses have implemented UCHealth’s virtual sepsis monitoring and new sepsis workflows. The result is faster, more accurate identification and treatment of sepsis. Parkview’s Sepsis Mortality Index has dropped significantly, demonstrating how earlier recognition and intervention are saving lives.

“Sepsis is a serious and life-threatening emergency due to infection,” said Dr. Jeffrey Shapiro, a pulmonary and critical care specialist with UCHealth Parkview. “There are a many moving parts that need to come together quickly. It takes pharmacy, nursing, physicians, transportation coordinating together to provide the best possible care.”

Parkview’s progress reflects a broader effort across the UCHealth system. The system now prevents at least 1,000 additional sepsis deaths a year compared to hospitals with average mortality rates, a fivefold increase compared to five years ago. These outcomes stem from advanced technology, early detection, and better coordination between virtual teams and bedside staff. Parkview joined UCHealth in 2023 and moves from the bottom 25% to the top decile compared to other hospitals within UCHealth.

A “save,” in hospital terminology, refers to an intervention that prevents a patient from deteriorating. While some of these moments are dramatic, many now happen quietly, guided by real-time data and virtual oversight.

“Sepsis is hard to detect because it’s subtle until it’s not,” said Amy Hassell, chief nursing officer of the UCHealth Virtual Health Center. “It is high consequence, and it has time consequence. Typically, for every hour you get antibiotics, your mortality improves by 10 percent. You want to find it as early as you can.”

Both UCHealth Parkview Medical Center and UCHealth Parkview Pueblo West Hospital have adopted virtual sepsis monitoring and updated workflows for physicians and nurses since joining UCHealth in 2023. The result: faster recognition, faster treatment and better outcomes.

“Virtual monitoring is a game-changer for our patients,” said Noreen Bernard, chief nursing officer at UCHealth Parkview. “It has led to so many improved lives, so many saved lives. Treating sepsis is all about speed. By using this technology, we can detect sepsis earlier and respond more swiftly, saving lives and improving outcomes.”

Virtual health monitoring supports rather than replaces bedside care, said Dr. James Caldwell, chief medical officer of UCHealth Parkview. “By implementing these high-reliability processes, coupled with advanced technology, we’re ensuring safer hospital stays for our patients,” he said.

The system relies on major investments in technology and clinical infrastructure. UCHealth teams have customized the Epic electronic health record to continuously screen patients across the hospital system. Data such as oxygen levels, heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, respiratory rate, lab results and medications flow into the Virtual Health Center in real time.

When early signs of sepsis or other risks are detected, the virtual team alerts the on-site rapid-response team. In some cases, staff activate one of about 1,000 cameras installed throughout UCHealth facilities. These cameras allow remote staff to observe patients and collaborate with in-hospital teams. Some cameras are ceiling-mounted, while others are mobile units used as needed.

“The patients, for the most part, love this, and families love it too, because they feel like they’re getting extra attention,” Hassell said.

In 2011, Sepsis Alliance declared September as Sepsis Awareness Month, an annual opportunity for health care professionals and organizations to raise awareness that sepsis remains a leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals. With earlier detection, virtual support and rapid response, UCHealth is changing the outcome for thousands of patients each year.

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UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital in metro Denver also reached the 95th percentile, ranking 12th out of 208 hospitals in the Vizient complex care medical center cohort. 

“By collaborating across all disciplines and locations, our team’s commitment to excellence through continuous improvement allows us to deliver safe, consistent, exceptionally high-quality care across our diverse geographic footprint. We are thrilled to receive these Vizient honors, which are a direct reflection of our dedication to the UCHealth mission to improve lives and serve the patients and communities who depend on us,” said Dr. Jennifer Rabaglia, chief quality officer for UCHealth. 

The recognition period is for work spanning July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. 

“We extend our sincere congratulations to this year’s top-performing hospitals recognized in the Vizient Quality and Accountability Study,” said David Levine, chief medical officer of Vizient. “Their performance reflects the highest standards in clinical quality and operational excellence, and we are proud to honor their achievements.” 
 

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Loveland, Colo. – UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) is the first hospital in northern Colorado to be designated a Thrombectomy-Capable Stroke Center. 

The advanced designation, announced recently by The Joint Commission, recognizes MCR’s commitment to providing high-quality stroke care, including mechanical thrombectomy procedures and post-procedural care. The designation is based on a rigorous evaluation of the program’s staff expertise, infrastructure, education, quality and safety measures. 

MCR began offering mechanical thrombectomy in late 2023. The minimally invasive technique removes life-threatening blood clots lodged in the brain’s large central vessels and aims to restore blood flow to the brain. Since the program launched, the team has treated more than 100 stroke patients using this technique, which not only saves lives but also can lead to a higher quality of life after stroke. 

“This isn’t just about a number. It’s about people: the patients whose lives were changed, the moments when every second mattered,” said Dr. Gautam Sachdeva, vascular interventional neurologist at MCR and leader of the thrombectomy program. 

Mechanical thrombectomy is most effective when performed quickly, according to Sachdeva. Traditional clot-busting medications don’t always work on large clots and tend to have a stricter timeframe for administration. Thrombectomy can be offered up to 24 hours after the patient was last known to be well. 

“Time is critical in this type of procedure,” Sachdeva said. “When this is done promptly and there’s minimal brain damage already, patients can experience near-complete recovery.” 

MCR is the only hospital between Denver, Colorado, and Casper, Wyoming, offering this advanced procedure. Previously, patients had to be transported to Denver, if time allowed. Now, patients from northern Colorado and southern Wyoming can receive life-saving care quicker and closer to home. 

The new certification comes on the heels of the American Heart Association recognizing MCR with the Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment, according to research-based guidelines. MCR also was recognized by the association with awards for meeting criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy, meeting criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment to remove the clot causing the stroke and ensuring patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke. 


Know the signs: BE FAST 

A stroke can happen at any age and any time, and approximately two million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated. Sachdeva urges everyone to know and watch for the signs of stroke and be ready to act. BE FAST is an easy way to remember sudden signs of stroke: 

• Balance. Sudden loss of balance or inability to walk straight. 
• Eyes. Sudden loss or changes in vision. 
• Face. Uneven smile or drooping of mouth. 
• Arm. Sudden loss of arm strength or coordination. 
• Speech. Inability to speak clearly or to understand what is being said. 
• Time. Time to call 911 if you suspect stroke symptoms. 
 

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Earlier this year, a district court ruled HCPF had misclassified two UCHealth hospitals. Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins and Memorial Hospital in Colorado Springs had been classified as governmental facilities when they should have been classified as private in the CHASE program.

In the agreement, HCPF will drop its appeal of the district court’s decision and will correctly classify these hospitals in the current and future CHASE models. UCHealth agrees to waive all changes to the 2023-24 CHASE model, which means governmental hospitals will not have to repay an estimated $59.7 million in CHASE funds received last year that would otherwise have been required to be transferred to the private CHASE category, and UCHealth will not receive any additional funding.

“UCHealth is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for all Coloradans, and we are honored to be our state’s largest provider of Medicaid services,” said Elizabeth B. Concordia, UCHealth president and CEO. “We strongly support the CHASE program, and we thank the state and HCPF for their collaboration and support of providers who care for patients covered by Medicaid. The greatest successes for patients and our state happen when hospitals, HCPF and the administration work together collaboratively.”

Apart from the agreement with the state, UCHealth is also establishing a new, $5.7 million donation fund linked to its community benefit program to support any rural, independent, governmental hospitals that are negatively impacted by the reclassification of UCHealth’s hospitals in the 2024-2025 CHASE model.

“More than 80% of Colorado’s rural hospitals are under significant financial strain and operating with thin or negative margins. The CHASE fee is an essential funding mechanism for our rural hospitals. Instability or uncertainty in the fee could have pushed vulnerable hospitals past the breaking point. UCHealth’s approach to waive changes for last year and invest millions this year demonstrates a real commitment to protecting access to care in rural Colorado. We are deeply grateful for their partnership,” said Jeff Tieman, president and CEO of the Colorado Hospital Association.

UCHealth will work with the Colorado Hospital Association to determine how its new community benefit fund will be distributed to those impacted hospitals.

Aurora, Colo. (August 26, 2025) – As fall approaches, UCHealth is encouraging Coloradans to take proactive steps to help protect themselves and their communities from infection by getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19.

“Vaccination is a critical tool in preventing severe illness,” said Dr. Michelle Barron, senior medical director of infection prevention and control at UCHealth. “Staying healthy isn’t a bad thing. You get to go to work, you get to go to concerts, you get to spend time with your children because you aren’t home sick in bed. Vaccines help keep you, your families and our community safer,” she added.

Flu vaccines are now widely available at retail pharmacies, and Dr. Barron encourages all Coloradans to get the flu shot. It is especially important for Coloradans who are at heightened risk for developing complications from infection including people over 65, people with underlying health conditions or chronic diseases, pregnant women, and young babies.

Flu season typically starts in October, with infection rates often peaking during the holiday season and continuing through May. Getting vaccinated before the respiratory virus season peaks helps reduce the spread of illness in the community.

This year’s COVID-19 vaccine, expected to be available mid-September, targets a strain of COVID-19 from the JN.1 lineage. This variant accounts for more than 70% of strains currently circulating in the United States. Amid ongoing updates from federal agencies regarding COVID-19 vaccine guidance, Dr. Barron emphasizes that the same recommendations for flu apply to the COVID-19 vaccine—encouraging all Coloradans to stay protected against both viruses this fall. 

“We can’t forget about COVID-19 and the tools we have in our toolbox to help reduce disease spread and hospitalization,” said Dr. Barron. “There is so much information out in the world, it’s hard to decipher between what is real and what is not. That’s why I recommend Coloradans talk to their health care providers. They study this information and can provide accurate and detailed information based on your individual health care needs,” she said.

Getting tested for flu or COVID-19 if you are experiencing symptoms is also important. Timely diagnosis can help health care providers prescribe antiviral medications to help reduce severity of illness and manage symptoms.

You can learn more about the upcoming respiratory virus season and vaccine guidance here. 

Loveland, Colo. – UCHealth Medical Center of the Rockies (MCR) has reached a significant milestone in advanced stroke care: more than 100 patients have been treated with mechanical thrombectomy since the program launched in late 2023.

MCR is the only hospital in northern Colorado offering thrombectomy, a specialized procedure that removes large blood clots from the brain. Since clots are one of two leading causes of stroke, this lifesaving technique dramatically improves patient outcomes, enabling faster recovery with less disability. Before MCR’s program, patients in northern Colorado and southern Wyoming often had to be transported to Denver for this procedure – if time allowed. Now, they can receive advanced stroke care sooner, which means more lives saved and better post-procedure outcomes.

“It’s hard to believe how far we’ve come. What began as an ambitious vision, built from the ground up, has grown into a high-impact program that is saving lives and changing outcomes every single day,” said Dr. Gautam Sachdeva, vascular interventional neurologist at MCR and leader of the thrombectomy program. “Every success along the way has been powered by collaboration – emergency medical services partners, emergency room staff, physicians, nurses, technicians, radiology, intensive care unit teams, support staff and countless others coming together with a shared purpose.”

Patients like Loveland resident 32-year-old Erica Brown are grateful to have this program close to home. In February 2025, Erica experienced a stroke caused by a blood clot in her brain. Fortunately, her husband quickly noticed something was wrong and called 911. Crews from Loveland Fire Department and Thompson Valley EMS responded. The TVEMS team rushed her to MCR, where the stroke team was standing by. Less than 90 minutes after arriving at the hospital, the clot was removed and full blood flow was restored to her brain. Thanks to the quick and coordinated efforts, Erica woke up the next day able to move and speak without limitations, allowing her to recover quickly and return to enjoying life.

How mechanical thrombectomy works

A thin flexible tube – or catheter – is inserted into an artery in the groin or arm. Guided by X-ray imaging, an interventional neurologist navigates the catheter to the clot in the brain. A device inserted through the catheter is then used to remove the clot, either by pulling it out or suctioning it out, to restore blood flow to the brain.

Mechanical thrombectomy is most effective when performed quickly, according to Sachdeva. Traditional clot-busting medications are only an option for patients in the first 4.5 hours after the first symptoms appear, and they don’t always work on large clots. Thrombectomy can be offered up to 24 hours after the patient was last known to be well.

“Time is critical in this type of procedure,” Sachdeva said. “When this is done promptly and there’s minimal brain damage already, patients can experience near-complete recovery.”

Recovery varies depending on stroke severity. Some patients regain movement and speech immediately, walk the next day and go home within days. Others may require rehabilitation.

Know the signs: BE FAST

A stroke can happen at any age and any time, and approximately two million brain cells die every minute a stroke goes untreated. Sachdeva urges everyone to know and watch for the signs of stroke and be ready to act. BE FAST is an easy way to remember sudden signs of stroke:

·        Balance: Sudden loss of balance or inability to walk straight.

·        Eyes: Sudden loss or changes in vision.

·        Face: Uneven smile or drooping of mouth.

·        Arm: Sudden loss of arm strength or coordination.

·        Speech: Inability to speak clearly or to understand what is being said.

·        Time: Time to call 911 if you suspect stroke symptoms.

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Fort Collins, Colo. – Jeramie Tesky wasn’t expected to live this long. 

In December 2003, a devastating head-on collision left him in a coma for months. He suffered two broken femurs, shattered knee caps, a broken foot and a severe traumatic brain injury. At just 28 years old, doctors in Wyoming gave him only a few years to live. 

That was 22 years ago. 

Today, he is not only alive – he’s thriving. And to mark his 50th birthday, the Jamestown, North Dakota, resident set out on a celebratory road trip, beginning at the place where his life began: UCHealth Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins, Colorado. 

Tesky was born at the hospital at 9:14 a.m. on Aug. 9, 1975. He returned exactly half a century later to the birth center, where nurses and staff lined the hallway to welcome him back and wish him a happy birthday. He brought a box of chocolate-covered cherries to thank them for the care they continue to provide to families every day. 

But the staff had a surprise of their own. 

At this hospital, every time a baby is born, someone presses a “magic button” that plays Brahms’ Lullaby throughout the hospital – a sweet tradition that invites everyone to pause and celebrate new life. During Tesky’s visit, the nurses gave Jeramie the honor of pressing the button himself, filling the halls with music in celebration of his milestone birthday and remarkable journey. 

“I hope I have another couple 50 years at least,” he said with a smile. 

What else was on Tesky’s 50th birthday road trip agenda? A visit to the Denver Zoo, a Denver Broncos preseason game, a train ride to Pikes Peak, a stop at a casino and the purchase of 50 Powerball tickets. 

Tesky’s birthday isn’t the only milestone being celebrated at Poudre Valley Hospital this year. The hospital, originally opened in 1925 as Larimer County Hospital, is marking its 100th anniversary. Built to care for 40 patients with adjacent farmland used to grow food for them, the hospital now offers more than 250 beds and serves thousands of patients each year.

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“This achievement underscores the remarkable commitment of UCHealth’s staff and providers, whose compassion and expertise place our patients at the center of everything we do,” said Elizabeth B. Concordia, UCHealth president and CEO. “Improving lives and delivering exceptional care isn’t just our mission, it’s our daily promise to the communities we serve.”

U.S. News ranks University of Colorado Hospital (UCH) among the nation’s best in four specialties:

·         Pulmonology and lung surgery (shared with National Jewish Health)

·         Cancer

·         Diabetes and endocrinology

·         Obstetrics and gynecology

UCH was also ranked as high performing in treatments for acute kidney failure, heart conditions including stroke, arrhythmias and heart failure, spinal fusion and hip fractures.

 “I’d like to express my gratitude for our staff members, nurses, physicians and advanced practice providers who deliver such excellent care each day,” said Tom Gronow, president and CEO of University of Colorado Hospital. “Through our close collaboration with the CU School of Medicine, we are the state’s only academic medical center and are able to bring the latest treatments and innovations to our patients, while also maintaining our focus on exceptional quality.”

In addition to the U.S. News rankings, nonpartisan think tank The Lown Institute recognized UCHealth as one of the country’s top performing health care systems in social responsibility, community benefits, health care value and patient outcomes for the second time.

In fiscal year 2024, UCHealth cared for 2.7 million patients and provided more than $1.3 billion in community benefits, including $570 million in care for patients who could not afford to pay.

For the full list of Colorado hospital rankings, visit the U.S. News & World Report website.

Funded by a grant from the Department of Defense (DoD), the research addresses a critical challenge in national preparedness: the strain placed on the U.S. health care system during a prolonged mass casualty event. According to DoD projections, national health emergencies or a large-scale overseas combat scenario resulting in high numbers of patients could deplete national hospital bed capacity within 10 to 12 days.

The University of Colorado Department of Emergency Medicine received a $12.5 million grant in 2023 to develop an alternative care facility (ACF) using creative, scalable solutions. The study’s first phase focused on developing a comprehensive ‘playbook’ to rapidly set up temporary hospital space in a hotel.

Now, in year two, the Colorado-based research team has completed a working prototype inside the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center, located across the street from the CU Anschutz Medical Campus. Two fully functional intensive care units have been constructed, one inside a conference room and another using hotel rooms converted into patient rooms, a nursing station, imaging and laboratory services.

“From a disaster preparedness perspective, this is probably the most impactful project I'll ever work on,” said Dr. Jason Persoff, UCHealth physician and associate professor at the CU School of Medicine, who is co-leading the research. “Because of this work, we now have a blueprint to turn a hotel into a hospital-level care site in just two to four weeks. This could save countless lives during a crisis.”

Unlike temporary hospital spaces used during the COVID-19 pandemic, including tents and convention centers, the hotel model offers several advantages including improved infection control, private bathrooms and the ability to isolate patients to ensure safer, more effective hospital-level care.

The ACF will be in place for two weeks as the team transitions to the final phase, which will focus on testing the model in other cities, refining and finalizing a comprehensive ‘playbook,’ and developing algorithmic tools to help hospital decision-makers select appropriate surge solutions based on needs and available resources.