An Endoscopy Scope Keeps Essential Diagnostics Local in Cortez

Throat and stomach camera procedures requiring an upper endoscopy scope represent about half of all appointments conducted by Southwest Memorial Hospital’s surgical center. Until this year, Southwest Memorial has leased their scope, but rising costs mean that the hospital cannot renew the equipment, a problem for both the hospital and patients. After Southwest Memorial received a quote to buy an endoscopy scope at a steep discount, volunteer board members with the Southwest Memorial Hospital Foundation reached out to LOR for support. LOR’s funding will help Southwest Memorial Hospital purchase an upper endoscopy scope to continue providing essential diagnostic services locally. The new equipment will help the hospital build long-term financial stability—critical as rural hospitals face significant funding cuts—while Cortez-area residents can continue to receive care closer to home.