Daniel Keuning, FNP Family Nurse Practitioner Pagosa Family Medicine, Pagosa Springs, CO

As a rural healthcare provider, I have seen the value of community. Moving to southwest Colorado ten years ago was a big decision coming from “the city”. I truly had no idea of the unique healthcare needs of a mountain town. I came as a RN, and now have advanced practice priviledges. I recognized the need to do more about 4 years ago.

Here is a scenerio. While answering an email I am awaiting an ambulance to arrive at the clinic to bring us 3 people from a car that rolled 200 feet down Wolf Creek Pass. There are 2 confirmed fatalities and 2 children trapped in the car. This is what makes life more than interesting at a rural clinic.