Silver City, NM — Gila Regional Medical Center (GRMC) is proud to announce that its Physical Therapy team has been awarded the University of New Mexico (UNM) Division of Physical Therapy 2026 Outstanding Clinical Site Award, a distinction recognizing excellence in clinical education and student mentorship.
The award is presented annually based on nominations from graduating Doctor of Physical Therapy students who identify clinical sites that exceed expectations in providing a high-quality learning experience. GRMC received this honor following a nomination from Isaac Swartz, a Doctor of Physical Therapy student and recipient of the UNM Class of 2026 Student Award, who commended the team for delivering an exceptional and impactful clinical rotation.
During his time at GRMC, Swartz worked closely with Natalie Hall, Physical Therapist, who served as his clinical instructor during his rotation and helped create a supportive and engaging learning environment.
The Outstanding Clinical Site Award reflects GRMC's commitment to fostering future healthcare professionals through hands-on learning, mentorship, and a strong emphasis on patient-centered care. The Physical Therapy team plays a vital role in supporting students as they transition from classroom learning to real-world clinical practice.
"This award highlights the dedication and excellence of our Physical Therapy team," said Robert Whitaker, CEO. "Their work not only supports student learning but also strengthens the quality of care we provide to our community every day."
Gila Regional Medical Center remains committed to strengthening partnerships with academic institutions and supporting the next generation of healthcare providers through meaningful clinical education opportunities.
