CRMC is Redefining Healthcare in Rural Minnesota

For more than 60 years, Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC) has continued to advance how health care is delivered in Central Minnesota.

Decades ago, CRMC was among the first hospitals in Minnesota to embrace minimally invasive surgery, adopting advanced surgical techniques before many larger health systems. Today, that same drive continues through robotic-assisted surgery, custom 3D-printed implants, nationally recognized specialty care and continued investment in services throughout the Brainerd Lakes region.

For CRMC, progress isn’t about technology or growth alone. It’s about giving patients greater access to advanced care without having to travel far from home.

Bringing Advanced Medical Technology Closer to Home

CRMC continues to invest in technology and expertise that can improve surgical precision, recovery and patient outcomes.

From robotic-assisted surgery and advanced orthopaedic procedures to custom 3D-printed implants, patients have access to complex care typically associated with much larger medical centers.

CRMC’s commitment to quality is also reflected in multiple certifications and Centers of Excellence designations across its specialty programs. Patients from throughout Minnesota and neighboring states now travel to CRMC for specialized procedures and expertise.

In 2025 alone, CRMC performed more than 11,180 surgeries, supported by experienced surgeons, advanced technology and coordinated care teams.

Nationally Recognized Orthopaedic Care

CRMC is the first and only critical access hospital in the nation to earn all five DNV Advanced Orthopaedic Certification designations:

• Orthopaedic Center of Excellence
• Shoulder Surgery
• Spine Surgery
• Hip & Knee Replacement
• Foot & Ankle Surgery

These certifications recognize CRMC’s commitment to patient safety, quality outcomes and excellence across the continuum of orthopaedic care.

CRMC also continues to advance surgical care through technologies and techniques that allow patients to receive increasingly complex procedures closer to home.

Preparing the Next Generation of Healthcare Professionals

Innovation also means investing in the future of medicine.

As a teaching site for medical students, residents and fellows, CRMC provides opportunities to learn alongside experienced physicians and care teams across a variety of specialties.

Education and mentorship help prepare future healthcare professionals while creating an environment where knowledge, techniques and best practices are continually shared.

For patients, that means receiving care within a medical community committed to learning and advancing medicine.

Expanding Healthcare Access Across the Brainerd Lakes Region

Advanced care only makes a difference when patients can access it. That’s why CRMC continues to invest in facilities and services throughout the region.

New Nisswa Clinic Expands Primary and Same-Day Care

CRMC’s new Nisswa Clinic will bring primary and same-day care to one of the fastest-growing communities in the Brainerd Lakes area.

The clinic will make it easier for families, seasonal residents and visitors to receive care closer to where they live, work and spend time.

Expanding convenient access to primary care can also help patients address health concerns earlier and stay connected with routine and preventive care.

Expanding Cancer Care in Crosby

CRMC is also expanding oncology services at its Crosby campus.

The new oncology department will provide additional space to meet the region’s growing need for cancer care and allow more patients to receive treatment without traveling long distances.

For patients and families navigating cancer, receiving care closer to home can mean less time on the road and more time near the people and support systems that matter most.

These investments aren’t simply about becoming a larger healthcare system. They’re about responding to the changing needs of the communities CRMC serves.

Creating a Better Patient Experience

Technology, facilities and clinical expertise are only part of the patient experience.

CRMC was recently named one of 26 Minnesota hospitals included on Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of “765 Hospitals Patients Would Highly Recommend,” based on patient experience and satisfaction.

“This recognition shows the incredible support and trust our community continues to place in us every day,” said Amy Hart, CEO of Cuyuna Regional Medical Center. “It reflects not only the compassion and dedication of our staff and the expertise of our providers, but also our shared commitment to delivering exceptional care close to home.”

That commitment extends throughout a patient’s experience.

From the first appointment through treatment and recovery, CRMC emphasizes personalized support, clear communication and coordination between providers and care teams. The goal is to make complex health care easier for patients and families to navigate.

Progress With Purpose

Healthcare will continue to change, and CRMC will continue to evolve with it.

New technology. Greater access. Expanded specialty care. Medical education. New and improved facilities.

Each investment serves a larger purpose: helping people throughout Central Minnesota receive the care they need while remaining connected to their families and communities.

For CRMC, that’s what progress looks like.