The Importance of Rural Healthcare: Caring for Our Communities Close to Home
On November 19, communities nationwide will observe National Rural Health Day, a day to celebrate the people and organizations working to keep rural communities healthy and strong. For Pipestone, Edgerton, and the surrounding communities, rural healthcare is more than having a hospital and clinics nearby. It means access to quality care, trusted healthcare professionals, and a broad range of services without always having to travel to a larger community. At Pipestone County Medical Center, our team takes this responsibility seriously. “Rural healthcare is about much more than providing medical services,” said PCMC CEO Brad Burris. “It is about being part of the community we serve and ensuring our neighbors and families have access to the care they need when they need it.”
Quality Care Close to Home
PCMC offers a wide range of services in Pipestone, including family medicine, emergency care, surgery, obstetrics, orthopedics, women’s health, radiology, laboratory services, therapy, wound care, and more. The Edgerton Family Clinic provides primary care for individuals and families in Edgerton and the surrounding area. PCMC’s Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is designated a Level IV Trauma Center by the Minnesota Department of Health. Access to this level of care locally can make a significant difference, particularly for patients who are injured in an accident. “Being close to home matters when you’re sick or caring for someone you love,” Burris said. “Our goal is to ensure people in our region have access to excellent care without having to leave their community to receive it.”
Rural Doesn’t Mean Limited
Rural healthcare organizations continue to expand services, adopt new technology, and invest in their facilities to meet the needs of their communities. PCMC is part of that effort. Recent investments in technology, facilities, and services are helping prepare the organization to meet the region’s needs for years to come. Most recently, PCMC received approval for a $14.3 million renovation and expansion of its surgical department, including a third operating room and upgrades to existing surgical spaces. “Providing rural healthcare means continually seeking ways to improve what we offer our patients,” Burris said.
Strong Healthcare, Strong Communities
The impact of rural healthcare extends beyond the exam room. A strong local healthcare system creates jobs, supports the local economy and helps make a community a place where people want to live, work and raise their families. It also reflects something important about rural communities: people caring for their neighbors. “Rural communities have tremendous strength,” Burris said. “We see that every day in the dedication of our employees and the support from people throughout the region. We are proud to be part of these communities and are committed to ensuring high-quality healthcare remains available close to home.” National Rural Health Day offers us an opportunity to recognize the healthcare professionals, patients, families, volunteers, and community members who contribute to the health of rural America.