VVRMC Expands

New Rural Health Clinic Proposed for Precinct #2 Val Verde Regional Medical Center, County Officials Discuss Expanding Access to Care at Tony Faz Center

By Texas Times Staff
DEL RIO, TX — Plans are moving forward that could soon bring expanded healthcare services to residents in Precinct #2, as Val Verde Regional Medical Center officials and county leaders begin early planning for a new rural health clinic at the Tony Faw Center.
During a recent meeting and live interview, Val Verde Regional Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Jorge Jurado confirmed that discussions have begun with County Commissioner Juan Carlos Vazquez to explore the possibility of opening a primary care and behavioral health clinic inside the community center.
Jurado said the idea came during a visit to the facility, where officials discussed ways to improve access to healthcare for residents living in the surrounding area.
“During one of our visits to the Tony FaZ Center, Commissioner Vazquez and I talked about how beneficial it would be for the community if we could embed a rural health clinic within that building,” Jurado said.
“We are now moving forward with planning discussions to bring primary care services, along with behavioral health support, to that location.”
According to Jurado, the goal of the project is to make healthcare more accessible, particularly for elderly residents and families who may have difficulty traveling across town for routine appointments.
Primary care services would allow patients to see a family medicine provider for regular checkups, illnesses, and ongoing medical needs, while behavioral health services would provide access to counseling and mental health support.
“Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health,” Jurado explained.
“We want to create an integrated model where both services are available together, making it easier for patients to get the care they need close to home.”

​Hospital Expanding Services Despite Challenges Facing Rural Healthcare
Jurado also spoke about the continued growth of Val Verde Regional Medical Center, noting that while many rural hospitals across the country are reducing services or closing departments, the local hospital is working to expand.
Recent improvements have included the opening of new clinics, growth in surgical services, and continued investment in the hospital’s obstetrics department.
“We are blessed to have a strong team and strong support from our community,” Jurado said.
“Our goal is not just for the hospital to survive, but to thrive. This is a long-term plan to grow as our community grows.”
He added that cooperation between local government, the hospital, the school district, Laughlin Air Force Base, and other partners has played a major role in the progress being made.
“When the hospital thrives, the community thrives. Healthcare is the center of economic growth, and having good healthcare is essential for the future of Del Rio and Val Verde County.”

Cancer Treatment Improvements Also in Development
In addition to the proposed clinic, Jurado shared that the hospital is also working toward expanding cancer treatment services locally.
Following a recent hospital foundation fundraiser, planning is underway to build a USP 800 clean room, a specialized facility that would allow chemotherapy medications to be prepared safely at the hospital.
Currently, many cancer patients must travel to San Antonio or other cities for treatment.
“There is nothing harder than fighting cancer and having to travel long distances for care,” Jurado said.
“Our goal is to allow more patients to receive treatment here at home whenever possible.”
Hospital officials are currently in discussions with medical partners in San Antonio, San Angelo, and Texas Tech University about a collaborative oncology program that could allow some treatments to be performed in Del Rio while patients continue working with their specialists.

Commissioner Vazquez Supports Use of Tony Faz Center
Mr. Juardo gave thanks to Commissioner Juan Carlos Vazquez, Precinct #2, for offering the Tony Faz Center as a potential location for the clinic, saying the facility could serve as a central point for expanded services in that area of the county.
The project remains in the early planning stages, but leaders say the goal is clear — to provide more convenient, reliable, and modern healthcare options for the residents of Val Verde County.
Further updates are expected as discussions continue
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