Staff reports

Rural healthcare has long faced challenges, but Artesia General Hospital (AGH) has expanded is offerings to serve the growing needs of southeast New Mexico.

Once a modest local facility, AGH grew to serve patients in Artesia, Carlsbad, Roswell and the surrounding communities with a increased technologies and healthcare offerings.

High-tech care

AGH is investing in medical advancements to help patients get the care they need without long travel times. Over the past three years, the hospital and the Artesia Special Hospital District committed millions of dollars to upgrades and expansions.

One major development is a state-of-the-art MRI suite, currently under construction. Built by local contractors, the suite will house a next-generation scanner, further enhancing AGH’s diagnostic capabilities. This addition joins a recently installed CT scanner and expanded radiology services, making AGH the only facility in southeast New Mexico accredited in all five imaging modalities: CT, MRI, Mammography, Nuclear Medicine, and Ultrasound.

Surgical innovation is also a priority. Nearly a decade ago, AGH introduced robotic-assisted surgery for orthopedics, enabling precise joint replacements and faster patient recovery. Today, modern operating rooms continue to support these advanced procedures and help attract high-level specialists to the community. New providers, including a cardiologist, have recently joined the AGH team, expanding access to specialty care for local residents.

Telemedicine has also become a permanent feature of AGH’s services. Initially scaled during the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual care is now widely available through AGH clinics. Whether it’s a routine check-up or a specialist consultation, patients across rural areas can connect with healthcare providers from their own homes—bridging the gap in a region where long drives often stand between patients and the care they need.

Community focus

The hospital recently established a non-emergency transportation program. The service offers wheelchair-accessible rides for patients who otherwise lack reliable transportation to medical appointments. With weekday availability and trained drivers providing door-to-door service, the initiative has already improved access to essential care for many residents.

AGH is also a significant economic force in the county, employing hundreds and actively supporting local businesses. In 2024, the hospital hired more than 100 new employees and spent millions of dollars locally on supplies and services. Expansion projects frequently use local contractors and vendors, reinforcing AGH’s commitment to boosting the regional economy.

Looking further ahead, AGH and the hospital district are planning a “healthcare village” on a 250-acre site at the north end of town. The development will include a new medical complex surrounded by walking trails, affordable housing and community-focused amenities.

Patient experience

Patient satisfaction surveys place the hospital among the top performers nationwide. Over 75% of surveyed patients gave AGH the highest possible rating, and 100% of recent inpatients reported being treated with courtesy and respect.

These results span all departments, from emergency services to surgery. Patients consistently praise the professionalism and warmth of the staff, noting short wait times, clean facilities, and thorough care.

To further improve patient convenience, AGH offers a secure online Patient Portal where individuals can view their medical records, lab results, schedule appointments, and message their providers.

Even the hospital cafeteria has been re-imagined. The Green Chile Café, located inside the hospital, is open to the public and known for its home-style New Mexico fare. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the café serves up local favorites like green chile-smothered burritos and hearty daily specials.

Expanding regional access

On the northside of Artesia, AGH is planning a 157,000-square-foot facility that will triple the hospital’s size, dramatically increasing emergency and surgical capacity and boosting inpatient beds. The project is expected to break ground by late 2027 and is designed to meet the growing healthcare needs of a rapidly expanding population.

At the same time, plans are in motion to expand AGH’s reach through a second major facility. Proposed as a full-service clinic, the new center would ease the burden on Carlsbad residents who currently travel to Artesia for care. A 42,000-square-foot medical center is in development and will offer urgent and primary care in Carlsbad in the coming years.

Local officials have applauded these projects. With about 20% of AGH’s current patients coming from Carlsbad, the expansion was intended to bring essential care closer to where people live.