Cochise County Enhances Local Health Services
Cochise County officials are making significant strides to improve health services and keep residents’ spending within the community. In a recent quarterly health department update, a new marketing campaign was introduced to promote local healthcare options and diminish the need for residents to seek assistance outside the county.
The initiative involves a partnership among five local hospitals and the health department, aiming to raise awareness about the specialized care available in Cochise County. Many locals are unaware of the health services offered nearby and often travel to larger cities like Tucson and Phoenix for treatment. The campaign, which uses the slogan “Health Is Here,” is being promoted through signs and radio advertisements to educate the public about their local healthcare choices.
Alongside these marketing efforts, the Health Department is developing a comprehensive database intended to help both residents and visitors easily locate health services in the area. This user-friendly platform will feature GEO mapping to assist individuals in finding nearby healthcare providers, as well as arrange transportation if needed. It’s expected to be a valuable resource for finding specific healthcare professionals, such as urologists and rheumatologists, who are currently missing from the local landscape.
The meeting also tackled pressing healthcare shortages in Cochise County, specifically the scarcity of rheumatologists. Recent assessments indicate that many community members suffer from autoimmune diseases, requiring specialized care that’s hard to come by locally. This gap in services has led to increased travel for treatment, which not only affects patients but also drains local economic resources.
Recognizing that hospitals play a vital economic role, officials emphasized the need to keep medical costs contained within the county. By enhancing access to local healthcare, the county intends to preserve employment and financial resources in the community, ultimately enhancing residents’ quality of life.
As Cochise County progresses with these initiatives, the focus remains on building a robust healthcare infrastructure that meets the needs of its residents and encourages them to seek care locally. The next phases include finalizing the marketing campaign and launching the medical services database, both expected to positively influence community health and economic stability.
Work Session Quarterly Update Meeting from Health Division August 14, 2025
