Hereford Regional Medical Center Receives State Rural Health Grant

May 18, 2026 (Hereford) – Hereford Regional Medical Center received the first installment of a grant award from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to replace medical equipment nearing the end of its expected service life and upgrade patient health record technology. The grant will reduce expenditures for repairs and rentals, update aging equipment, and strengthen patient care.  

The grant totaling $578,000 is paid in three amounts, contingent on compliance with reporting and other requirements. 

“This grant provides valuable resources to help us replace aging medical equipment, such as labor and delivery beds, exam tables, and ER equipment, which are indispensable for modern healthcare delivery,” said Candice Smith, RN, MSN, CEO, Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “This grant will help ensure uninterrupted patient care and avoid diverting essential operating revenue to maintenance and repair costs.” 

Medical equipment can have an expected service life of anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on the particular piece of equipment, before it needs to be completely replaced. In addition, as equipment ages, it typically becomes more costly to maintain.  

“We appreciate the Texas Legislature’s commitment to rural healthcare and communities,” said Kevin Bunch, chair, Deaf Smith County Hospital District board of directors. “This grant supports Deaf Smith County Hospital District in our work to meet the healthcare needs of everyone in our community and keep care close to home.” 

Hereford Regional Medical Center is one of 79 hospitals in the state eligible for a 2026-2027 rural health stabilization grant, created by House Bill 18, the Rural Health Stabilization and Innovation Act, 89th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, 2025. The grants provide time-limited funding to support and improve the financial stability of rural hospitals, rural hospital districts, and rural hospital authorities.  

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ABOUT DEAF SMITH COUNTY HOSPITAL DISTRICT 

Deaf Smith County Hospital District operates an EMS, outpatient clinic, and inpatient hospital and is designated by the Texas Department of State Health Services as a Level IV trauma center. Our mission is to improve the health and quality of life of the individuals and communities we serve. More information at dschd.org.