When I moved to Colorado Springs, I looked into hospitals and found that the medical facilities are quite well-equipped, more than I expected. I thought I would have to go to Denver for a major hospital, but most medical needs can be addressed right in this city. Based on my research, I've compiled a list of five hospitals that are worth remembering.

UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central

First on the list is UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central. It is a large general hospital located at 1400 E. Boulder Street with over 400 beds.

Most importantly, it is the only Level I Trauma Center in southern Colorado. It can handle severe trauma patients, including those in life-threatening situations from major traffic accidents or falls. The stroke unit operates as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, with neurosurgeons and vascular specialists available 24/7. If someone asks me where to go in a serious emergency, I would definitely remember this place first.

CommonSpirit Penrose Hospital

The second hospital is CommonSpirit Penrose Hospital. It is an older general hospital located at 2222 N. Nevada Avenue.

In previous records, it was listed as Centura Health, but Centura is no longer in operation, and it is now managed by CommonSpirit Health. This large hospital has a 24-hour emergency room and operates as a Level II Trauma Center. It is well-equipped for specialized care in cardiology, oncology, and surgery, making it one of the representative hospitals in the area alongside UCHealth Memorial.

UCHealth Memorial Hospital North

If you live in the northern Briargate area, you should also be aware of UCHealth Memorial Hospital North. Located at 4050 Briargate Parkway, it is much closer for residents in the northern suburbs than Central.

This general hospital has a 24-hour emergency room and offers surgical and women's health services. It is particularly convenient for families raising children in the Briargate and Northgate areas. However, it is not a Level I Trauma Center like Memorial Central. For serious trauma cases, Central plays a larger role.

CommonSpirit St. Francis Hospital

To the northeast, there is CommonSpirit St. Francis Hospital. It is located on Woodmen Road, making it convenient for residents in the Powers and northeastern areas.

This general hospital operates a 24-hour emergency room and is well-equipped for childbirth, neonatal care, orthopedics, spine, cardiology, and surgery. It also has a Level III NICU, making it noteworthy for families expecting a baby. It serves as a base for the Flight For Life Colorado emergency helicopter.

Children's Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs

For families with children, remember to note Children's Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs, in addition to general hospitals. It is a 294,000 square foot pediatric specialty hospital located on Briargate Parkway.

This is not just a general hospital with a pediatric department. It features Colorado Springs' first pediatric-only operating rooms and pediatric emergency rooms, which are open 24/7. In situations where a child is seriously ill or needs specialized pediatric care, it is a very reassuring option.

Additionally, you should also be aware of UCHealth Grandview Hospital. While it is smaller than the other hospitals mentioned, it specializes in orthopedics, making it an important facility for those considering knee or hip surgeries.

In summary, if you remember the hospitals in Colorado Springs, it goes like this: for major accidents or severe emergencies, think of Memorial Central; for northern residents, consider Memorial North or St. Francis; for traditional general care and specialized services, think of Penrose; and for children, remember Children's Hospital.

However, finding a good hospital in the U.S. is just as important as checking your insurance. No matter how reputable a hospital is, if it's out-of-network for your insurance, you might end up with a bill that hurts more than the illness itself.

When you move, it's a good idea to save the contact information for a nearby ER, Urgent Care, and a few in-network hospitals on your phone while you're still healthy.