Holy Cross Medical Center is the central hub for health care in north-central New Mexico. Our hospital and clinics are home to over 80 physicians, covering a variety of ever-expanding specialties that include internal medicine, wound care, dermatology, ob/gyn, orthopedics, general surgery, urology and a fully-staffed emergency department.
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Taos Clinic for Children and Youth (TCCY) is thrilled to announce the addition of Dr. Clifford Scott to its pediatric team. With over 30 years of experience as a practicing pediatrician, Dr. Scott brings a wealth of experience and compassion when caring for his patients. He joins the clinic in early December and is excited to serve the children and families in the Taos region.
Born in Roswell, NM, and raised in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Scott’s journey into medicine began with his love for science. “I thought I would go into environmental sciences for a while,” Dr. Scott shared, “but I quickly started thinking about how amazing it would be to have the opportunity to care for people. I coupled my love for science with my love for working with kids.” Choosing to work as a pediatrician allows him to combine both passions. His love for pediatrics was further cemented during his medical school rotation where he was able to work with kids and their families for the first time. “I kept an open mind when I entered medical school. I enjoyed all of my rotations, and I did pediatrics last, but the love for the kids and my skill set directed me directly to pediatrics.” he said.
After completing his pre-med at Baylor University, medical degree at Texas Tech, and pediatric residency at the San Antonio Health Science Center, Dr. Scott became the first doctor in his family. His open communication style and friendly rapport make him a valued partner for families. “I want them to think of me not just as a physician but as someone they can have a personal relationship with,” he explains.
One of Dr. Scott’s greatest joys in pediatrics is helping families. “Seeing smiles on the kids’ faces and relief on the parents’ faces — knowing I have the opportunity to do that daily is very rewarding,” he says. His commitment to building deep relationships with his patients and their families has been a hallmark of his long career.
TCCY offers comprehensive pediatric services for children of all ages. Dr. Scott is joining a great team that includes Veronica Parker, Dr. Keith Krist, Kerry Hopes, Marie Sanchez, and Morgan Verkuilen. This team of highly skilled pediatricians, medical assistants, and support staff are committed to delivering top-notch medical care in a warm and child-friendly environment. Whether it’s routine check-ups, vaccinations, or specialized treatments, TCCY is here to ensure the well-being of your children, supporting them on their journey to a happy and healthy life.
In his free time, Dr. Scott enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping, along with music. He is excited to join a local choir and also plays guitar. Dr. Scott and his wife, Sherry, who is also a physician, moved to Taos with their dog, Albert, a standard poodle. They have three children.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Clifford Scott to Taos Clinic for Children and Youth. His dedication to pediatric care and his love for children will make him a perfect fit for our team and community.
Taos Clinic for Children and Youth is accepting new patients and same-day sick visits are available. For more information about TCCY’s services visit TaosPeds.org or call (575) 758-8651
October is National Physical Therapy Month, and it’s the perfect time to highlight the compassionate care provided by the team at Holy Cross Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation. Their specialized treatments cover areas such as hand therapy, pelvic floor rehabilitation, balance and fall prevention, orthopedic rehabilitation, and neurological recovery. The team also provides pain management, manual therapy, and movement analysis for various conditions, from sports injuries to post-surgical recovery. The center is committed to personalized care to help patients regain strength and mobility at any stage of life.
This October, let’s take a moment to recognize physical therapists for their dedication to improving lives through movement. Physical therapists play a crucial role in helping people recover from injuries, manage pain, and maintain mobility. National Physical Therapy Month is a great reminder of the importance of staying active, maintaining balance, and prioritizing physical health at every stage of life. Learn more about the team at TaosPhysicalHealth.com
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Taos will once again shine a bright shade of pink as the community comes together for the 10th anniversary of the annual “Paint Taos Pink” campaign. The month of events will benefit Holy Cross Medical Center’s Taos Cancer Support Services program, with all the money raised staying local to help individuals and families experiencing cancer.
Jeannie Ross, Director of Community Health Services at Holy Cross Medical Center, shared insights about the importance of this event and its impact on the Taos community.
“Paint Taos Pink is more than just a series of fun and vibrant activities; it’s a powerful reminder of the support that exists within our community for those battling cancer,” Ross explained. “This event allows us to show solidarity with our neighbors while raising funds that directly benefit those in need.”
The Taos Cancer Support Services program is an initiative of Holy Cross Medical Center. The program offers vital services to individuals and families affected by cancer. These services include cancer support groups, patient navigation, financial assistance for travel to medical appointments, meal support, and access to complementary therapies. Ross emphasized how these services help ease the burdens many cancer patients face, particularly in rural communities like Taos, where access to specialized treatment may require traveling long distances.
“Many cancer patients in Taos have to travel for treatment, which can be costly and emotionally draining,” Ross said. “Paint Taos Pink helps us raise funds to provide travel vouchers and gas cards so patients can focus on their treatment and recovery without the added stress of financial strain.”
During the month of October, there are a wide range of activities aimed at engaging participants of all ages and backgrounds. Some of the key events planned for this year include:
Every year restaurants in and around Taos join the cause and donate proceeds from a dedicated date to support the program. In 2023, over $5,000 was donated by local restaurants, which means you can dine out and support a great cause! Visit one of the following restaurants on their committed day and a portion of their proceeds will support Paint Taos Pink.
One of the key messages Ross emphasized was the importance of keeping funds raised through Paint Taos Pink local. “When people donate or participate in these events, they’re supporting their friends, neighbors, and loved ones,” she said. “Every dollar stays right here in Taos and goes directly to supporting cancer patients in our community.”
The local support extends beyond the medical services provided by Holy Cross Medical Center. Local businesses, artists, and volunteers all contribute to making Paint Taos Pink a success. “This event really shows the heart of Taos,” Ross said. “The businesses that donate, the artists who contribute to the silent auction, the people who volunteer their time, and support from the Town of Taos — it’s a true community effort.” Along with hosting the Pink or Swim event, the Town of Taos will be placing paper flowers throughout the town in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.
There are many ways for community members to get involved in Paint Taos Pink, whether it’s through attending events, donating to the cause, or even volunteering. Ross encouraged everyone to participate in some way. “You don’t have to attend every event or make a large donation—every little bit helps. Whether you show up for a yoga class, bid on an item at the auction, or simply spread the word about the event, you’re making a difference.”
Paint Taos Pink continues to grow each year, and so does the impact it has on the lives of those affected by cancer in the Taos community.
“We want people to know that they’re not alone in this fight,” Ross concluded. “This event is a reminder that the Taos community is here to support them every step of the way.”
For a full list of events, restaurants, and more information, visit TaosCancerSupport.org
Holy Cross Surgical Specialties is thrilled to welcome Dr. Stephen Balise to Taos. Dr. Balise is a highly skilled general surgeon and joins the team with a deep commitment to patient care, a passion for his craft, and a strong sense of community.
Dr. Stephen Balise was raised in rural Massachusetts, where he grew up with an older sister, an older brother, and a twin brother. His parents were both blue-collar workers. His father worked in tthe used car business and his mother was a middle school teacher. Their commitment to their careers instilled in him the importance of family and hard work. Dr. Balise attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, which allowed him to stay close to his family and share his college experience with both of his brothers, a connection that remains strong to this day.
This strong foundation of family and community has undoubtedly shaped Dr. Balise’s approach to medicine. “Growing up in a close-knit family taught me the importance of connection, which I try to bring into my work with patients. I believe establishing a relationship with not just the patient, but their entire family, is a crucial part of achieving a successful outcome,” he shares.
Dr. Balise’s journey into medicine was catalyzed by a profound personal loss. While a freshman in college, he lost one of his best friends, a tragedy that left him feeling helpless. “That experience solidified my decision to pursue medicine,” he explains.
“I never wanted to feel that helpless again, but more importantly, I wanted to be able to help the families of my future patients from experiencing that type of loss.”
This deep sense of empathy and drive to make a difference has carried Dr. Balise through his medical training and into his career as a surgeon. His dedication to patient care is evident in his approach to surgery, where he prioritizes effective and safe operations while maintaining open communication with patients and their families.
Dr. Balise brings a wealth of expertise to Holy Cross Surgical Specialties, with a focus on procedures such as gallbladder surgeries, hernia repairs, and colonoscopies. He is particularly excited about the opportunity to grow the hospital’s surgical robotics practice. In October 2024, Holy Cross Hospital will be installing a state-of-the-art da Vinci 5 surgical robot – a tool with which Dr. Balise is fully trained and excited to use. “The da Vinci system allows for minimally invasive surgeries with incredible precision and control. This can lead to faster recovery and better outcomes for patients, it’s really incredible to have this technology right here in Taos” he notes.
While Dr. Balise’s journey to Taos was somewhat serendipitous, he felt an immediate connection to the community. “Before I visited for my interview, I knew very little about Taos. But within hours of arriving in Taos, I felt at home,” he recalls.
“After my interview, my brother called to ask how it went, and I simply said, ‘I think you’ll be visiting me in Taos next year if they’ll have me.”
Beyond his professional life, Dr. Balise is looking forward to exploring his new home. He enjoys reading, following Boston sports, and he’s also excited about taking up skiing again, which he hasn’t pursued in years but is eager to revisit in the beautiful Taos mountains.
Dr. Balise’s family remains in Massachusetts, with his parents staying close to his sister and her family in Toronto. However, his brothers are not too far away, residing in Colorado and California, and he jokes that he’s already working on convincing them to move to Taos.
As Dr. Balise settles into his new role at Holy Cross Surgical Specialties, he is eager to contribute to the health and well-being of the Taos community. His combination of expertise, empathy, and enthusiasm makes him a valuable addition to the team.
For more information, visit TaosSurgery.org
In 1936, local patron of the arts and philanthropist, Mabel Dodge Luhan, donated a house on La Posta Road that became the first location of Holy Cross Hospital. Today, Holy Cross Hospital is an 89,000 square-foot, not-for-profit, Critical Access Hospital located off Weimer Road, with a local governing board that includes both physicians and community members. More than a hospital, it is now Holy Cross Medical Center — a family of great care that includes a network of clinics, practitioners, and programs that strive to meet the healthcare needs of our community.
We hope you’ll take a few minutes to learn about some of the exciting new developments and progress that is being made at Holy Cross.
In May, the Holy Cross Board of Directors voted to add a 13th seat that is committed to include representation from our indigenous population, and the Board of Directors recently reviewed a new round of applicants to fill four vacant seats on the Hospital Board. Two members were re-elected for their positions and two new Board members were elected, Andrew Chavez and Eileen Lujan. The current Board members include Holy Cross Medical Center staff and individuals that represent different regions of our community: Abe Balsamo, Board Member; Andrew Chavez, Board Member; Robyn Chavez, Board Member; Lucille Gallegos-Jaramillo, Board Vice-Chair; Carl Gilmore, Board Member; Trinidad de Jesus Arguello, Board Member; Eileen Lujan, Board Member; Cristina Martinez, Board Secretary; Donald Mooney, Board Treasurer; Jonathan Moran, DO, Board Member; Paul Sands, Board Chairman; Peter Selzer, MD, Board Member; Chris Stagg, Board Member.
As the Team Taos campaign continues, Holy Cross remains vigilant in hiring long-term local employees to fill open positions and continues to work towards reducing the number of traveling workers. Since the campaign began, 34 full-time nurses have been successfully recruited, surpassing the initial goal of 25. The campaign has reduced the number of traveling workers from 112 down to 28, and the number of traveling nurses has been reduced from 48 to 14. Over the last year the Holy Cross team has grown from 460 to 520 employees. Reducing travelers has resulted in a savings of about $3.8 million of traveling contract labor expenses for fiscal year 2024 from 2023.
On the physician recruitment front Holy Cross is excited to welcome three new physicians to our team. Dr. Krist, Pediatrician, joined the Taos Clinic for Children & Youth on July 8th, Dr. Balise, General Surgeon, starts September 3rd, and Dr. Scott, Pediatrician starts October 10th.
Senator Bobby Gonzales was instrumental in getting $15 million added to the state budget that is earmarked to support expansion of healthcare services in Taos County by Holy Cross. In 2023 a county-wide survey showed that the number-one health concern for locals was access to primary care. In response to these findings, Holy Cross plans to allocate that funding towards a new building at the main hospital campus that will help expand primary care, and serve as a new home to the now off-site Holy Cross clinics, departments and programs. Like the current hospital building, the new building will be owned by Taos County. Medical construction requires careful design and planning, and while the initial planning has begun, the construction and development will take time.
Holy Cross has hired Helen Forte as the new Interim Foundation Planner. Helen will work to revive the Holy Cross Foundation and lay the groundwork for this initiative. The Foundation will interface with our community partners and identify resources at the local, state and federal levels. The Foundation’s goal will be to secure donations and grants, and focus on projects that can support the long-term financial health of our hospital, clinics, and programs. In the past, Holy Cross had a Foundation dedicated to this mission, but under previous administrations, the foundation was dissolved. The new Holy Cross Foundation will offer a great opportunity to support the financial stability of the organization, while also engaging with the community and discovering new ways to serve our population and expand service lines. Holy Cross Hospital remains a member of the Taos Community Foundation and looks forward to continued collaboration.
Holy Cross Medical Center continues to offer free support to the community through six distinct programs.
Holy Cross Hospital is scheduled to receive a new state-of-the-art Da Vinci 5 surgical robot this fall. A very generous local donor has contributed funds to cover a large portion of the cost of acquiring this device. Through robotic assistance this highly advanced tool will enhance surgeries, offering the potential for reduced procedure times and better outcomes for patients. This Da Vinci robot is also vital for surgeon recruitment – most surgeons in residency, those entering the workforce, and many that are already practicing are trained on this technology and expect their facility to have a surgical robot. Holy Cross is beginning construction on the operating room that will house the Da Vinci unit, which is scheduled to arrive in October. Holy Cross Hospital is likely to be one of the first hospitals in the nation to receive the newest version of the Da Vinci robot in the fall.
Holy Cross has made a commitment to its staff and to the community to implement a new, modern, robust Electronic Health Records (EHR) system. The process of selecting the best possible platform for the facility is ongoing and the selection and integration will likely continue through 2025. The coming upgrade will offer improved customer service to patients, simplifying things such as reviewing test results, bill payment, physician referrals, and will better communicate with other local health record systems. Upgrading the EHR will enhance data-driven clinical decisions, and offer real time efficiency metrics. In the long-run this upgrade will help improve the overall financial stability of Holy Cross by streamlining internal processes, communication, and billing procedures.
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