Inside the OR: How CVRMC’s Surgery Team Is Raising the Bar in Rural Health

At Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center (CVRMC), the Surgery Department is more than just a place for procedures—it’s a dynamic hub of innovation, collaboration, and compassionate care. Despite being a rural hospital, the surgical team at CVRMC is pushing boundaries, offering advanced services that rival much larger facilities. We spoke with Lydia, Director of Surgery, and Rocky, who is over Central Supply, to learn what makes this department so unique—and so successful.

A Day in the Life: Teamwork at Its Best

The day starts early for this tight-knit team. Pre-op nurses arrive by 6:30 a.m., preparing the first patients of the day, while scrub techs and circulators begin prepping operating rooms and checking for any last-minute issues. It’s all about rhythm, coordination, and trust.

“We’re small—but that’s our superpower,” says Lydia. “Everyone is accountable, communication is fast, and we’ve got each other’s backs.”

Whether it’s a routine knee arthroscopy or a complex C-section, the team flows through each case with seamless transitions and a shared sense of purpose. Even behind the scenes, staff like Rocky play a pivotal role, from managing supplies to assisting in the OR.

“I help scrub in, sterilize equipment, turn over rooms, and coordinate supply orders,” Rocky says. “With all the new services we’re adding, it’s a constant balancing act—but it’s worth it.”

Innovation in Action

One of the most impressive aspects of CVRMC’s surgical department is their ability to adapt and grow. They’ve introduced robotic-assisted surgeries for procedures like gallbladders and hernias, launched a thriving urology program, and are gearing up to offer neurosurgery with their new spinal navigation system—fondly referred to as the “stealth system.”

“Bringing in new services and seeing them take off—that’s the most rewarding part,” Lydia says. “Urology went from nothing to a smooth-running program. Robotics felt intimidating at first, but now it’s routine. That kind of growth keeps the work meaningful.”

Even with millions of dollars in new equipment, the team keeps learning. Staff travel to observe procedures, reps are brought in to provide hands-on training, and refreshers are a regular part of staff meetings.

“We can’t stay the same,” Lydia explains. “Even people who’ve been here 20+ years are still learning.”

Culture of Care and Community

Perhaps what truly sets CVRMC’s surgery team apart is their deep connection to the community and to each other. Many of the staff members have known their patients—or their patients’ families—for years. That familiarity eases anxieties and strengthens trust.

“Honestly, it feels like we’re taking care of our own family,” Lydia says. “Patients aren’t just numbers here.”

The culture within the team is just as strong. There’s mutual respect between nurses, techs, and surgeons—even when the work gets intense. Everyone is held to high standards, but support is always present. Staff are empowered to speak up, ask questions, and pitch in wherever needed.

“It takes a ton of coordination to make it all work,” Lydia says. “But we make it work because we trust each other.”

Why It Matters

The impact of this department’s work goes beyond the OR. They’ve significantly reduced patient transfers by expanding services, now keeping four patients for every one sent out. Patients come from as far as White River and Safford, no longer needing to make the trek to Tucson for high-level care.

For those preparing for surgery, Lydia offers this advice: “Stay here. You’ll be cared for by people who know you—and that makes all the difference.”

From early morning patient prep to late-night emergency call-ins, the surgical team at CVRMC proves that quality care doesn’t require a big-city hospital—just a team with heart, grit, and the drive to keep improving.

And as Lydia puts it with a smile, “We’re just amazing.”

Want to learn more about our surgical services or schedule a procedure? Visit cvrmc.org or talk to your primary care provider