The Colorado Rural Health Center (CRHC) presented the Rural Health Excellence Award to Steve Sanchez, Community Relations Manager at Southeast Colorado Hospital, during the Colorado Rural Healthcare Conference. CRHC CEO Michelle Mills stated that the award acknowledges individuals who show outstanding dedication to their healthcare facilities, communities, and the broader goal of providing high-quality, affordable healthcare in rural Colorado. Since 2017, Sanchez has held several healthcare leadership positions, including serving as Board Chairman for the Southeast Regional Healthcare Coalition and the State of Colorado Southeast Region Healthcare Coalition Board Chair, as well as being a Commissioner on the State of Colorado Suicide Prevention Commission.
Sanchez also contributes to the CRHC Policy and Legislative Committee, where he helps advance rural healthcare initiatives. In 2023, he facilitated securing the Marva Jean Jackson award, which funded the Ogallala Commons Internship program aimed at offering work experience for rural students in their home communities. Reflecting on the recognition, Sanchez highlighted the complexity of rural health work and the collaborative efforts needed to effectively serve patients and communities. Mills commended Sanchez and other members for their dedication and involvement in enhancing rural healthcare services. The Colorado Rural Health Center, founded in 1991, continues its mission to improve healthcare services in rural Colorado by offering resources, education, and support to healthcare professionals and communities. More information about the organization can be found at https://www.coruralhealth.org.
