Artesia General Hospital is a community-focused, nonprofit healthcare provider serving Artesia, Carlsbad, Roswell, and all of southeastern New Mexico. For over 85 years, we’ve delivered compassionate, high-quality medical care with a personal touch. As a DNV-accredited acute care hospital, and Great Place to Work we combine hometown attention with advanced clinical technology to support patients at every stage of life.
1939
Year Established
25-Bed
Non-Profit Facility
85+
Years of Care
A Legacy of Care: An Expanded Timeline of Artesia General Hospital
Our Story: From Rural Lifeline to Regional Innovator
Founded in 1939, Artesia General Hospital (AGH) was born from the community’s need for reliable, local medical care. From our origins as a vital rural hospital, we have grown in lockstep with the region, evolving into a modern healthcare system defined by a relentless commitment to innovation and excellence.
We champion advanced medical care in a rural setting, giving our neighbors access to top-tier treatment. We launched the region’s robotic-assisted surgery program nearly a decade ago, delivering greater precision and faster recoveries. Today, we advance the future of medicine through our state-of-the-art data center, telehealth services, and by operating the only radiology department in southeastern New Mexico accredited in all five major imaging modalities.
As we look to the future, our commitment to innovation is stronger than ever. With plans for a new full-service clinic in Carlsbad and a visionary “healthcare village” in Artesia, we are building a healthier tomorrow for generations to come.
Physician-Led and Community-Focused
Our Leadership Team
Combined with decades of national healthcare experience, our leaders ensure that every patient receives high-quality, compassionate, and patient-centered care. They are not just executives—they are neighbors, mentors, and advocates dedicated to the health and well-being of the families they serve.
Our leadership maintains deep ties to Artesia and southeastern New Mexico, reflecting a strong commitment to our region. Dr. Joe Salgado, who grew up in Artesia, leads the hospital as CEO. A board-certified Family Practice physician, he uses his clinical expertise to guide our operations.
Our leaders work closely with physicians, nurses, and staff to provide care that is efficient, effective, and tailored to every patient.
“Our task is simple: deliver world-class care to our neighbors in Artesia and Southeast New Mexico,”
Dr. Joe Salgado, CEO






Our Commitment to Safety & Clinical Excellence
Our national accreditation from DNV Healthcare proves our commitment to rigorous safety and quality standards.Our care teams use evidence-based practices and continuous improvement to ensure every patient receives the best possible outcome. This emphasis on quality and accreditation reinforces credibility for both users and search engines.
Learn more about our Mission Vision and Values
Artesia General Hospital stands as the only healthcare facility in New Mexico certified as a Great Place to Work®. This distinction reflects our commitment to a supportive, collaborative work environment where employees feel valued and empowered—ensuring that every patient receives compassionate, high-quality care from a team that truly cares about the community.
Learn more about our Great Place to Work Recognition
A Unique Partnership
Community Governance & Accountability
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit hospital, we are accountable to the community we serve. Our dual-board governance structure ensures transparency in decision-making and that community voices shape the future of local healthcare. We reinvest every dollar into improving services, expanding technology, and supporting community health initiatives.

Governing Board of Directors
This board of community leaders and medical professionals provides strategic oversight to ensure we are fulfilling our mission, maintaining the highest standards of clinical quality, and operating with fiscal responsibility.







Special Hospital District Board
Community members elected by you—the residents of the Artesia Special Hospital District—lead this board. They oversee the voter-approved hospital mill levy, ensuring your tax dollars effectively support and enhance patient care.





