A Beacon of Hope in Rural Colorado: Celebrating Safety Net Clinic Week with Basin Clinic

The Heartbeat of Rural Health: Safety Net Clinic Week

Amid the tranquil beauty of Naturita, Colorado, a celebration unfolded that resonated with warmth, gratitude, and communal pride. The Colorado Rural Health Center (CRHC) orchestrated a luncheon that brought together clinic staff, community members, and local leaders to honor the Basin Clinic during the annual Safety Net Clinic Week, which spanned from August 17th to 23rd, 2025. This event not only fed bodies but also nourished spirits, as attendees absorbed the words of a proclamation signed by Governor Jared Polis, heralding the indispensable role of Colorado's rural safety net clinics.

Michelle Mills, CEO of CRHC, illuminated the luncheon with her words, "Safety net clinics are essential points of access for healthcare services in rural communities across the state. In today's environment especially, the importance of quality care that is accessible to those who are uninsured, underinsured, or insured through public programs cannot be understated." It's a clarion call to uphold the safety net that protects the health of Colorado's rural populace.

A Salute to Basin Clinic's Unwavering Service

Amidst the festivities, the spotlight shone brightly on Basin Clinic, nestled in the rural expanses of Montrose County. Their selection as the honoree of this year’s Safety Net Clinic Week was no stroke of luck; it was a testament to their unwavering dedication to serving the health needs of their community. This recognition followed their recent accolade as a CRHC Top 10 Rural Healthcare Facility for Overall Performance, a feather in their cap that speaks volumes of their commitment and excellence in healthcare delivery. Read more about their recognition.

"The efforts of Basin Clinic and other clinics like it often go unrecognized," shared Mills. This sentiment was echoed by Christina Pierce, Executive Director at Basin Clinic, who expressed gratitude for the CRHC’s advocacy and support. Pierce's words painted a picture of a team driven by compassion and a mission to provide exceptional healthcare despite the challenges of limited resources.

The Lifeline of the Community

Basin Clinic's impact transcends the walls of its facility. Chris Daniels, the clinic's Board President and a testament to the clinic's life-saving capabilities, shared a personal narrative that underscored the clinic's vital presence. "Speaking as a patient, my life was saved because Basin is where it is," Daniels said, highlighting the clinic’s critical role in the community's health and well-being. This sentiment is a powerful reminder of the human stories interwoven with the clinic's daily operations, where every staff member, from clinicians to custodial workers, shares a unified goal: to deliver the best healthcare possible.

As Safety Net Clinic Week concluded, the proclamation signed by Governor Polis served as a lasting tribute to the remarkable contributions of rural primary care safety net clinics across Colorado. The week may have ended, but its spirit lingers on, inspiring a year-round appreciation for the clinics and individuals dedicated to ensuring the health and well-being of Colorado's rural communities. Discover the full proclamation here.

The Basin Clinic, through its exemplary service, stands as a beacon of hope in rural Colorado, a reminder of the profound impact of compassionate healthcare. As we look forward to future celebrations of Safety Net Clinic Week, let's continue to support and recognize the invaluable work of these clinics and their staff, ensuring a healthier tomorrow for all. For more information about the Colorado Rural Health Center and its mission, visit www.coruralhealth.org.