Service Area for MVCHS
The MVCHS geographic service area comprises all of Mora County. The area has a population of approximately 5,000 (US Census Bureau) covering 1931 square miles with a density of 2.6 persons per square mile. This compares with the average density of New Mexico at 15 persons per square mile. A total of forty-one different rural villages and hamlets are included in the service area.
The primary care clinic, MVCHS administration, Caridad de San Antonio, the ambulance service and one of the senior centers are located in the village of Mora. Mora is the commercial hub of the surrounding villages disbursed among the mountain valleys on the eastern slope of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. With the decline of the dependence on the agrarian lifestyle of the residents in the area, few of the commercial businesses remain.
A second senior center is located in the village of Wagon Mound. This incorporated village is located in the eastern part of the county. It is situated on the western edge of the Great Plains, along the Old Santa Fe Trail and the AT & SF Railroad Lines and on Interstate 25. Historically, it served as the hub for rail service to the surrounding areas. This service has been minimal in recent years. Most residents work in surrounding communities.
As with other frontier locations, Mora County is officially designated a Medically Underserved Area and a Health Professional Shortage Area.
Culture: Approximately 85% of the residents of Mora County are of Hispanic origin. The Spanish language is alive and well here as are rich Hispanic traditions and cuisine.
History: Many of the current residents of Mora County are direct descendents of the Spanish settlers of the 1600’s. A number of national flags have flown over the area, but the basic culture and spirit remain essentially unchanged.