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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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.
Holy Cross Medical Center welcomes Dr. Keith Krist, a highly experienced pediatrician, to the Taos Clinic for Children and Youth. Dr. Krist will be joining the team beginning in July.
Dr. Krist brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to pediatric care. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile in 1997 and completed his pediatric residency there in 2000. In 2018, he furthered his education with a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Cincinnati in Ohio. He is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, ensuring his commitment to the highest standards of pediatric care.
I was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where I spent most of my formative years,” Dr. Krist shared. His journey into medicine was a fulfilling one, marked by a diverse background. “We moved around with the nuclear industry because my dad was a nuclear physicist. We lived in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and then suburban Washington, D.C. After graduating high school, I pursued a degree in finance and economics but ultimately decided to follow my childhood aspiration of becoming a physician.”
Dr. Krist’s dedication to pediatric care is evident in his approach. “I love helping ease parental anxiety,” he explains. “There’s a lot of information out there, and helping parents understand it and raise healthy children is just a blessing. I’m grateful to get to do that while practicing good medicine and helping our most vulnerable grow into self-actualized adults.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Krist has taken on various roles, including administrative work. “I was the vice-chair of the medical staff at North Mississippi Health Services and would have become the chairperson had I stayed. I also love animal assisted therapy and have a Rhodesian Ridgeback who works with me as a therapy-assisting animal for anxious children or those who have difficulty communicating. Therapy assisted animals can greatly help reserved children open up.”
Dr. Krist’s relationship with his patients and their parents is collaborative. “I like to share information and ensure there is a consensus about how to move forward. Collaborative health is how I describe my approach.”
Beyond his professional life, Dr. Krist has a deep love for the natural beauty and community spirit of Taos.
I love working in small communities. Nothing compares to the connection you feel with your patients. Other than my job, I was drawn to Taos because of the nature, the history, the arts, and everything that makes this place unique. I’m grateful to have found it, and I think my interests and this place meld perfectly.”
In his free time, Dr. Krist enjoys hiking, skiing, photography, gardening, and playing the guitar. He recently discovered pickleball and finds joy in spending time on the trail with his dog.
Dr. Krist has also made significant contributions to pediatric care, such as chairing and implementing a successful ‘Safe Sleep’ initiative in Mississippi. This initiative focused on educating providers and patients about safe sleep habits for infants, addressing the high rate of sudden unexpected infant deaths (SUIDs) in the region.
The Taos Clinic for Children and Youth is thrilled to have Dr. Krist join their team. His extensive experience, compassionate care, and commitment to the community make him a valuable addition to Holy Cross Medical Center.
For more information about the Taos Clinic for Children and Youth, visit www.taospeds.org
Taos Clinic for Children & Youth
1393 Weimer Rd., Taos, NM 87571
(575) 758-8651
In the landscape of American healthcare, the prevalence of diabetes looms large, affecting millions of lives and presenting significant challenges to individuals and communities alike. New Mexico faces considerable challenges in this regard, as highlighted by data from the New Mexico Department of Health, indicating a steady increase in the age-adjusted prevalence of diagnosed diabetes over the past decade. This prevalence has risen from 9.6% to 11.2% from 2011 through 2020. This trend highlights the need for comprehensive diabetes management and education programs to support individuals affected by this chronic condition. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes remains a pressing public health concern, with over 38.4 million adults in the United States living with the condition. The impact of diabetes extends far beyond its initial diagnosis, often intertwining with a myriad of coexisting conditions and complications that further exacerbate its toll on individuals’ health and well-being. As we navigate the complexities of diabetes management and care, it becomes increasingly evident that holistic approaches are needed to address the multifaceted needs of those affected by this chronic condition. Holy Cross Medical Center has been taking on the challenge in our region by providing local support for those affected by diabetes.
Led by a dedicated team of care providers, the Diabetes Management and Nutrition Department at Holy Cross Medical Center is committed to empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to manage their diabetes effectively. From education and support to personalized interventions, the department strives to improve the health and well-being of every patient it serves.
Angela Torres is the Clinical Coordinator and Department Manager, she has been leading the team since 2021. The program has been accredited since June 1, 2001 and was led by Susan Kargula until she retired. Angela graduated from Penasco High School and moved to Albuquerque where she completed her PharmD at the University of New Mexico. She later moved to New York City and completed a residency. She returned to Taos to raise her family and discovered the need for her services in Diabetes Management.
“Considering the high rates of diabetes in New Mexico, I felt the need to shift my career path and specialize in diabetes care.”
– Angela Torres
Under the careful guidance of Dr. Niel Friedman, Medical Director of the program, Angela and her team offer a diverse range of services. Alex Troncoso is a registered dietitian, Jennifer Brock is a registered nurse and Lori Ann Cortez is the administrative assistant that keeps the department running, and Kelsey Chmil works at Holy Cross Hospital as the inpatient dietitian and diabetes educator.
Torres emphasizes the compassionate approach of the Diabetes Management team, “Not only are they passionate about what they do, but they empathize to help develop the skills needed for self management. I feel so lucky to have them on my team.”
At the core of the department’s mission is a commitment to personalized care. Through compassionate assessment of each patient’s health, family history, and lifestyle factors, the team creates tailored care plans designed to meet individual needs. Whether someone is living with pre-diabetes, gestational diabetes, type 1 diabetes, or type 2 diabetes, the department offers comprehensive support and guidance every step of the way.
One of the key services offered is nutrition counseling. Holy Cross currently has two registered dietitians offering patients personalized guidance on healthy eating habits and meal planning. Kelsey Chmil and Alex Troncos play a pivotal role in guiding patients towards healthier lifestyles. With a focus on education and empowerment, patients learn how different foods affect their blood sugar levels and how to make healthier choices for long-term wellness.
In addition to nutrition counseling, the department offers a range of interventions aimed at improving blood glucose management. From strategies to increase physical activity to the latest in medical interventions, glucose-monitoring technology and insulin pumps patients have access to a comprehensive array of resources designed to support their health journey. Additionally, the department offers inpatient education coverage for individuals newly diagnosed with type 1.
Beyond clinical services, the department fosters community engagement through initiatives like the Dexcom Pro group class, Diabetes Type 1 support group, ADA Camp 180 for kids, and collaborations with local schools. The Dexcom Pro group is an interactive session that provides patients with valuable insights into the factors influencing blood sugar levels and fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants. By empowering patients with knowledge and self-awareness, the department seeks to promote long-term health and wellness within the community.
As Angela reflects on the department’s impact, she underscores their commitment to personalized care and community support. “We want this community, as well as the surrounding area, to know we are available to help tailor a specific plan to meet individual needs,” she shares warmly. It’s this unwavering dedication to serving the diverse needs of the community that sets Holy Cross’ Diabetes Management and Nutrition Department apart.
For those seeking guidance and support in managing diabetes and improving their nutrition, Holy Cross Medical Center’s Diabetes Management and Nutrition Department is here for the community. With a compassionate team of professionals and a comprehensive array of services, they are committed to nurturing health and wellness in our region. A referral is necessary to receive care, but Lori Ann is happy to help you understand your options. Call (575) 751-5769 or learn more at https://holycrossmedicalcenter.org/locations/holy-cross-hospital/diabetes-management/
575-758-8883
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