caring for patients | BUILDING HEALTHY COMMUNITIES
Why we believe
Paulina Moreno
Registered Dietitian
I believe that every individual has a fundamental human right to access comprehensive and equitable healthcare. We all share a common origin and inherent dignity, which entitles us to the care and support necessary ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Paulina >
Why we believe
Kathryn “Katie” Henley BSN
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
In order for an individual to have an opportunity to live their best life, attending to their whole person health is crucial. All individuals, from all walks of life should have the opportunity to access ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Kathryn >
Why we believe
Melissa Baugher
Pharmacy Operations Manager
Providing the best patient care to all patients, not just to the patients that are within proximity but those who are in the outer areas of Cochise County. Health for All is reaching the unreachable. LEARN MORE ABOUT Melissa >
Why we believe
Laramie Edens
Dentist
Access to healthcare should be available to a person no matter their circumstances. Each patient deserves an exceptional level of care, compassion, and kindness. My goal is to provide a positive experience for ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Laramie >
Why we believe
Baron Staggs
Counselor, BH (Non-Licensed)
Mental health is still very stigmatized in our nation. I believe Chiricahua’s mission “Health for All” is about dismantling boundaries that keep the people of Cochise County from receiving quality mental health care. LEARN MORE ABOUT Baron >
Why we believe
Joel Switzer
Dentist
High quality healthcare should be for everyone, not just the fortunate few. I’m proud to be part of making that happen. LEARN MORE ABOUT Joel >
Why we believe
Athena Borhauer
Pharmacist in Charge in Sierra Vista
I choose to practice Chiricahua’s mission of “Health for All” in pharmacy by providing not only prescription medication, but also through counseling on over the counter medications and education to my patients about ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Athena >
Why we believe
Patrick Thurber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Everyone has a different, personal definition of “health.” Whatever that definition may be, I believe that all of us deserve choices when it comes to our physical and mental health, as well as someone who we trust ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Patrick >
Why we believe
Jamie Fitzpatrick
Family Nurse Practitioner
: I believe I the Mission of CCHCI: “HEALTH FOR ALL” because every single person deserves the best care possible no matter what their personal story may be. LEARN MORE ABOUT Jamie >
Why we believe
Veronica Azemawah
Pharmacist in Charge - Douglas
Healthcare is a fundamental human right and I think everyone should have access to quality healthcare regardless of their ability to pay. Chiricahua’s mission of “Health for All” helps fulfil this right by striving ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Veronica >
Why we believe
Danielle Taylor
Pharmacist
As healthcare providers, it is our duty to care for patients. However, sometimes financial barriers prevent people from getting the care and medications they may desperately need. Chiricahua’s mission of “Health for ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Danielle >
Why we believe
Christine O’Toole
Behavioral Health Counselor (LPC)
I believe in the mission of Chiricahua “Health for All” because all human beings are deserving of good health. I love that Chiricahua strives to provide the very best healthcare for every individual they serve. LEARN MORE ABOUT Christine >
Why we believe
Deanna Merrill
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
I believe quality healthcare should be accessible to everyone. As a resident of Cochise County, I understand the issues regarding access to healthcare that can occur living in a rural community. My goal is to be a ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Deanna >
Why we believe
Dawn Azbill
Family Nurse Practitioner
I believe in the mission of Chiricahua to provide high-quality healthcare to all, regardless of their ability to pay. Chiricahua’s actions and community involvement speak volumes, and I am proud to be a part of such ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Dawn >
Why we believe
Lilia Lara
Family Nurse Practitioner
I believe that there should be healthcare for all. CCHCI has this mission and is doing everything to provide healthcare for everyone. I am happy to be a part of a great team that is working towards the same goal.
I believe that Cochise County is a better, healthier place because of CCHCI. Having access to healthcare services is a right that the entire community has. I am proud to be associated with an organization that so ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Rebecca >
Why we believe
Jamie Armenta
Pharmacist Float
I am excited to be in an environment that allows Health for All and will go above and beyond to provide the care. Chiricahua is providing health care services to patients that may have otherwise given up on getting ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Jamie >
Why we believe
Britt Hanson
Board President
Everyone should have access to quality health care. Chiricahua has proved itself an innovative leader in delivering on this mission in Cochise County. I’m proud to be a member of its Board, hoping to preserve what ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Britt >
Why we believe
Gino Bardi Lola
Pediatrician
I believe that everyone deserves great medical treatment and when I got to know Chiricahua I saw that the vision aligned with my beliefs. I think the community is great and I'm excited to start practicing here. LEARN MORE ABOUT Gino >
Why we believe
Anahi Huang
Community Pediatrician
I stand by Chiricahua's vision because I truly believe that every single individual deserves quality health care. LEARN MORE ABOUT Anahi >
Why we believe
Gabrielle Lugo
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
I believe in the mission of CCHCI because all people deserve high quality health care regardless of social, economic, or immigration status. LEARN MORE ABOUT Gabrielle >
Why we believe
Glenn D. Tanita
Clinical Psychologist
Health for all means breaking down barriers to quality behavioral health services for everyone. I am excited to bring my experience as a psychologist to compassionately treat individuals at CCHCI. LEARN MORE ABOUT Glenn >
Why we believe
Victoria Ochoa
Family Nurse Practitioner
I believe in helping people of this community and providing care for all, regardless of whether they can pay. I enjoy the teamwork that comes with CCHCI to meet the mission of providing health for all. LEARN MORE ABOUT Victoria >
Why we believe
Dennis Walto
Chief External Affairs Officer & Executive Director - Chiricahua Health Foundation
I love that at Chiricahua the mission of "Health for All" is not just spoken, but lived; I love that we go the extra mile to make sure access to our high quality health services are available wherever you live, ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Dennis >
Why we believe
Karina Bechtold
Director of Advanced Practice - Adult and Family Medicine, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner
I am proud to work at a community health center, where we don't focus on the patient's ability to pay and where we work as a team to bring the highest quality medical care to ALL patients. Everyone is welcomed and ... LEARN MORE ABOUT Karina >
Douglas Chiricahua Community Health Centers hosts Autism Awareness Walk
Douglas Chiricahua Community Health Centers hosts Autism Awareness Walk
Bruce Whetten bruce.whetten@myheraldreview.com Apr 11, 2025 DOUGLAS − Chiricahua Community Health Centers Inc. of Douglas hosted its Third Annual Autism Awareness Walk on Saturday, April 5 at the 10th Street Park. Event organizers report over 250 people coming together not just for awareness—but for acceptance, inclusion, and understanding, making it the largest turnout they’ve had since first starting. Autism is not considered a disease but rather a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way children process certain types of information. It can lead to challenges in social communication, repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. “This powerful event was more than a walk, it... View Article
Coming Out Stronger: Navigating Challenges to Build a More Resilient Organization
Coming Out Stronger: Navigating Challenges to Build a More Resilient Organization
Original Article on Milken Institute LinkedIn Public Health at the Milken Institute March 5, 2025 Milken Institute Health continues to work with employers across sectors and industries to advance public health priorities. This interview series is part of the Employer Action Exchange, which highlights ways to accelerate turning evidence into action that impacts employees, communities, and businesses. Employers are a community and a critical contributor to advancing public health priorities that protect, support, and advance people, communities, and businesses. In 2025, Executive Insights is focusing on how employers invest in mitigating risk and building resilience for employees, communities, and their... View Article
In celebration of Dr. Seuss Week, Chiricahua’s Nathania De La Cruz was “Reading Across Cochise County” at Stevenson Elementary School in Douglas! In addition to bringing many smiles to many faces, Nathania also brought books so all the kids could go home and read to their parents! Way to go Nathania! #VivaChirichaua! ¡En celebración de la Semana de Dr. Seuss, Nathania De La Cruz de Chiricahua estuvo “Leyendo a Través del Condado de Cochise” en la Escuela Primaria Stevenson en Douglas! Además de traer muchas sonrisas a muchos rostros, Nathania también llevó libros para que todos los niños pudieran... View Article
Fiesta Bowl – Charity Spotlight: Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc.
Fiesta Bowl – Charity Spotlight: Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc.
Fiesta Sports Foundation Helps Fund Sports Physicals for Cochise County Youth The heartbeat of the Fiesta Sports Foundation is its commitment to aiding Arizona youth through its grant cycle and community impact. During the 2024-25 Grant Cycle, the Fiesta Sports Foundation’s funding benefited 22 Arizona nonprofits, including Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. (CCHCI). Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. is a federally-qualified health center located in Cochise County, in southeastern Arizona. In addition to its fixed locations, CCHCI operates eight mobile clinics providing services to students and patients. CCHCI opened on Aug. 26, 1996, and operates nine health centers and three... View Article
Chiricahua Leadership Meets Governor Hobbs at State of the State Address
Chiricahua Leadership Meets Governor Hobbs at State of the State Address
Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jonathan Melk and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Darlene Melk caught up with Governor Katie Hobbs at her State of the State address on Tuesday, February 11th in Sierra Vista. In her remarks, Governor Hobbs, who began her career as a social worker working with homeless youth and later helped run one of the largest domestic violence shelters in the country, stressed the importance of comprehensive, whole person care. In speaking with Chiricahua leadership she expressed her thanks for our continued efforts to care for our rural communities!
Chiricahua Community Health Centers and Cochise ESA celebrate donation of over 2,500 books
Chiricahua Community Health Centers and Cochise ESA celebrate donation of over 2,500 books
Bruce Whetten bruce.whetten@myheraldreview.com DOUGLAS − Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc., in partnership with the Cochise County Education Service Agency, recently donated 2,560 books to the Reading Across Cochise County initiative. The event, which took place on Thursday, Jan. 30 at the Early Childhood Center of Douglas, highlights a shared commitment to enhancing literacy rates amongst young students in Cochise County and ensuring that children have access to books both at school and in their homes. “As pediatricians we believe and we know from our research that the sooner we get books into the hands of our caregivers to read to... View Article
Chiricahua is proud to be a part of the solution to curbing opiate use disorder and working with partners to reduce overdose deaths in Cochise County
Chiricahua is proud to be a part of the solution to curbing opiate use disorder and working with partners to reduce overdose deaths in Cochise County
Original Article: myhearldreview.com County partnership forges ahead with plan to help drug addicts By Shar Porier shar.porier@myheraldreview.com BISBEE — In an effort to track lives lost to drugs and what could be done to prevent fatal overdoses, the 2022 Cochise County Overdose Fatality report (OFR) presents the efforts of a number of agencies who worked together to understand the dangers of abuse of legal and illegal drugs. National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) explains the issues in drug addiction and calls it a “complex disease” that changes the brain in ways that make quitting hard. It is considered a “relapsing”... View Article
Chiricahua's amazing Care Coordinators and Community Health Workers were featured in a great newspaper story that reported on the impact of our Chiricahua Cares program! The article highlighted how our teams go the extra mile to help patients in need. Thank You to Janet, Martin, and all our amazing staff who make the magic happen at Chiricahua!
Heal, Hold & Center: Honoring Survivors and Advocating for a Domestic Violence Free Future at Chiricahua’s Candlelight Vigils
Heal, Hold & Center: Honoring Survivors and Advocating for a Domestic Violence Free Future at Chiricahua’s Candlelight Vigils
In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Chiricahua Community Health Centers, along with our dedicated community partners, held powerful Candlelight Vigils in Sierra Vista and Douglas, AZ. On October 10th, we gathered in Sierra Vista for the city’s first annual vigil, hosted by the Sierra Vista Police Department, with support from Mayor Clea McCaa, the City Council, Sky Islands Regional Partnership, and Anchor House Christian Ministries. A week later, on October 17th, we came together once again in Douglas for our 29th Annual Candlelight Vigil, with special thanks to our keynote speaker, Rosemarie Verdugo, Honorable Mexican Consul Rita Vargas Torregrosa,... View Article
Chiricahua and partner Cox Media were recently honored with a Telly Award
Chiricahua and partner Cox Media were recently honored with a Telly Award
Chiricahua and partner Cox Media were recently honored with a Telly Award for our vaccine commercial entitled, “The Best Reason” The Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens. Founded in 1979 to honor local and regional television commercials, the award has evolved with the rise of digital video to include branded content, documentary, social media, immersive and more. The Telly Awards today celebrates the best work in the video medium in an exciting new era of the moving image on and offline. The Telly Awards annually showcases the best work created within television and across video, for all screens. Receiving over 12,000... View Article
Chiricahua Makes Its Mark at the United Nations General Assembly and Clinton Global Initiative
Chiricahua Makes Its Mark at the United Nations General Assembly and Clinton Global Initiative
New York, NY — Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. took part in the 79th United Nations General Assembly (#UNGA79), the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI), and the Concordia Summit, engaging in crucial discussions on health equity and prevention initiatives. Chiricahua received recognition from CGI’s Chris Thrasher for its innovative Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program, which provides essential support to individuals in their journey toward recovery. During the events, Chiricahua’s representatives had a brief but meaningful meeting with Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs to discuss shared priorities for improving healthcare access across the state. Additionally, they participated in a discussion led by Merck and... View Article
Governor Hobbs honors Chiricahua in recognition of National Health Centers Week
Governor Hobbs honors Chiricahua in recognition of National Health Centers Week
What an incredible conclusion to our National Health Center Week! We’re beyond thrilled to share a special message from Governor Katie Hobbs of Arizona, who recognizes the vital work we do every day. This week has been nothing short of amazing! From lending a hand to those in need, to supporting the hardworking individuals who ensure our communities are well-fed, we’ve come together in powerful ways. We also had the honor of rededicating Chiricahua’s very first clinic, a cornerstone of our mission, and unlocking a piece of our history by opening a time capsule placed in the clinic walls 25... View Article
Chiricahua Expands Health Services with New Willcox Family Health Center
Chiricahua Expands Health Services with New Willcox Family Health Center
Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc (Chiricahua) is proud to announce an investment of $250,000 by the Sierra Vista Industrial Development Authority which will be utilized to support renovations and construction of Chiricahua’s Willcox Family Health Center! The announcement was made in Willcox at the site of Chiricahua’s newest clinic which is currently under construction. “This investment comes at an important time as Chiricahua prepares to increase service capacity in the Willcox area,” said Dr. Jonathan Melk, Chief Executive Officer at Chiricahua, “… we are grateful for many partners who have contributed to making this dream real. Special thanks to the... View Article
By Bruce Whetten bruce.whetten@myheraldreview.com DOUGLAS − Chiricahua Community Health Centers Inc. (CCHCI) held a grand opening on Thursday, Aug. 1 for its new Acute Care Clinic which along with its pharmacy, will be located at 1111 F Ave. in Douglas. The Chiricahua Acute Care Clinic is designed to provide immediate medical assistance for sudden illnesses and injuries that require prompt attention but are not severe enough for an emergency room visit. The clinic aims to reduce the long waits often experienced in emergency rooms, ensuring patients receive the right care quickly and efficiently. Walk-Ins are welcomed and the clinic... View Article
Chiricahua Community Health Centers Hosts Mayor and Benson Hospital CEO for Collaborative Visit
Chiricahua Community Health Centers Hosts Mayor and Benson Hospital CEO for Collaborative Visit
Chiricahua Community Health Centers was proud to host Mayor Joe Konrad and Benson Hospital CEO Gary Kartchner at our Benson Family Health Center on Thursday, June 20th! Chiricahua CEO Dr. Jonathan Melk led the visit which included a short brief on Federally Qualified Health Centers and a deep dive into the wide array of services provided by Chiricahua in Benson. Since opening the Benson Family Health Center in 2018, Chiricahua has continued to expand health services and now offers a full-service pharmacy on site for patients. Mayor Konrad, who is no stranger to Chiricahua, thanked leadership and staff and seemed... View Article
The Difference One Nurse Makes: Chiricahua’s Innovative Approach to Increasing Vaccinations
The Difference One Nurse Makes: Chiricahua’s Innovative Approach to Increasing Vaccinations
Original Article: Click here MAY 13, 2024 Increasing the number of HPV vaccinations by more than 20%, eliminating the missed opportunity of vaccinating more than 1,500 children and adults, and delivering more than 2,000 immunizations that would otherwise not have been administered – these are accomplishments many health providers would love to achieve. Chiricahua Community Health Centers (Chiricahua) did it in one year – and by adding just one nurse. The Global HPV Consortium partner shared its best practice at a recent Consortium webinar. Covering a large section of southeastern Arizona, and running 100 miles along the border with Mexico, Chiricahua... View Article
Chiricahua Receives “Big Shot” Recognition for Innovative Healthcare Initiative at TAPI
Chiricahua Receives “Big Shot” Recognition for Innovative Healthcare Initiative at TAPI
Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. is thrilled to receive the esteemed “Big Shot” recognition from The Arizona Partnership for Immunization. This honor acknowledges the groundbreaking efforts of Chiricahua in integrating vaccine administration into dental settings, marking a significant milestone in healthcare delivery. The innovative program, spearheaded by dedicated professionals like Kelsey Vincent, RN, Emily Harris, MPH, and Dr. Brianna Hillier DMD, underscores Chiricahua’s commitment to revolutionizing public health practices. Special thanks to the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation and Barb Kozuh for their unwavering support in this endeavor. This accolade further solidifies Chiricahua’s dedication to innovation and excellence in healthcare.
Douglas’ Chiricahua Community Health Center promotes Autism Awareness
Douglas’ Chiricahua Community Health Center promotes Autism Awareness
By Bruce Whetten bruce.whetten@myheraldreview.com DOUGLAS − April was designated Autism Awareness Month. In an effort to bring continued awareness to autism, Chiricahua Community Health Centers Inc. in Douglas recently hosted an Autism Awareness Walk at the 10th Street Park. This year was the second consecutive year CCHCI hosted this event. Its aim was to raise awareness and support for individuals and families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) within the Douglas community. The Autism Awareness Walk featured a community walk, informational booths, speeches and various activities designed to bring awareness about autism spectrum disorder, “Today we are here with a... View Article
Francisco and Maria Ramírez: Their Experience with Chiricahua Community Health Centers
Join us as we sit down with Francisco and Maria Ramírez to hear their heartfelt testimonial about why they love Chiricahua Community Health Centers (CCHCI) and why they continue to choose us for their healthcare needs. From our compassionate staff to our comprehensive services, Francisco and Maria share their experiences and highlight the importance of accessible and quality healthcare for all.
JA Jance Makes Heartfelt Return to Bisbee
JA Jance Makes Heartfelt Return to Bisbee
New York Times bestselling author JA Jance returned to her hometown of Bisbee, AZ on Monday, March 11th visiting her Alma Mater Bisbee High School, and then dropping by Chiricahua’s Bisbee Family Health Center on Arizona St. In both settings, Ms. Jance shared heartfelt memories of her childhood and the importance of how those memories can become formative character traits in both real life and fictional stories. Ms. Jance: spoke on the importance of health and education, saying she was grateful to be able to come back to Bisbee, speak with young people, and share her passion for following your... View Article
Join us on a heartwarming journey as Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. extends a helping hand to a courageous woman facing healthcare challenges without insurance. Discover the uplifting story of compassion, community support, and the difference we can make together. Watch how we turned obstacles into opportunities for better health and well-being.
Chiricahua Receives Perfect Score
Chiricahua Receives Perfect Score
Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. (Chiricahua) provides primary care to the diverse communities and special populations of rural Cochise County, Arizona as the region’s only Federally Qualified Health Center. Every three years, the Health Resource Service Administration (HRSA), a division of the US Department of Health and Human Services, conducts an Operational Site Visit that provides an objective assessment of each Health Center Program’s compliance with the statutory and regulatory requirements of the federal government. This includes finance, clinical operations, governance, and adherence to the mission of Federally Qualified Health Centers. HRSA uses the Health Center Program Compliance Manual to determine... View Article
Stopping the violence before it starts Cochise County program seeks to educate youth and medical providers about domestic violence by Summer Hom Read the Full Article at AZ public Media Arizona has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the United States, according to domesticviolence.org, a non-governmental organization that aims to provide information to survivors of domestic violence. A program started by Chiricahua Community Health Centers in Cochise County aims to educate youth about the warning signs to prevent abuse before it starts. “The most dangerous time for a victim is when they want to leave, when they look... View Article
For motivated dental assistants, community health center training program accelerates careers
For motivated dental assistants, community health center training program accelerates careers
For Jackie Gonzalez, CDA, CPFDA, of Douglas, Arizona, her name tag at work is more than part of her uniform — it’s a badge of honor. On Gonzalez’s name tag is a ribbon indicating she’s promoted to Dental Assistant Level III at the federally funded Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc.(opens in a new window) (CCHCI) in... View Article
Experience convenient and compassionate healthcare with Chiricahua Community Health Centers Inc Mobile Clinics. Our fully equipped mobile clinics bring quality medical services to underserved communities, removing barriers and ensuring access to preventive care, general medicine, dental care, and more.
Early Childhood Center of Excellence
Ginger Ryan Clinic
