Healthcare Shouldn’t Be a $90 Ride Away: The Case for Local Care in Platte Canyon

For seniors in the Platte Canyon area, getting to a doctor isn’t just a matter of scheduling an appointment—it’s a logistical and financial burden. With no public transit options and rideshare services starting at $90 one way, many older adults are left facing an impossible choice: skip care or spend money they can’t afford.

This isn’t just inconvenient. It’s dangerous.

No one should have to choose between their health and their wallet. Yet that’s the daily reality for too many of our neighbors in Bailey, Shawnee, Grant, and Pine Junction.

That’s why a community-led group is working to establish the Platte Canyon Health Service District—a proposal that would bring a full-time, local healthcare clinic to Bailey. This clinic would provide:

• Primary care

• Urgent care

• Mental health services

• Other essential medical services

Designed to be sustainable and supported by the community, the health district would make it possible for residents to access the care they need, when they need it—without driving long distances or paying for costly rides.

Before it can appear on the ballot this November, the district must first be approved by the Park County Board of County Commissioners.

Accessible healthcare should not be a luxury. For our seniors—and for the entire Platte Canyon community—it’s a basic need.

Follow Health, Safety & Welfare of Park County on Facebook to stay informed and learn how you can support this vital initiative.

Let’s bring healthcare home.