Cuyuna Regional Medical Center: Caring for Communities, Together

Since its inception more than sixty years ago, Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC) has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Minnesota’s lakes country. Founded in the 1960s and deeply rooted in the communities it serves, CRMC has grown into a critical access hospital and regional health system with locations in Baxter, Breezy Point, Crosby, and Longville (with a fifth clinic opening soon in Nisswa). With over 1,000 employees, a wide range of surgical services, and nationally respected orthopedic care, CRMC delivers high-quality, patient-centered care while remaining locally governed and fiercely independent. 

That commitment to community is mirrored in CRMC’s long-standing banking relationship with Deerwood Bank. The two community-minded organizations began working together in 1964, and their relationship has evolved along with the healthcare and banking industries over the decades.  

A Partnership Built on Shared Purpose 

CRMC is both a deposit and lending customer of Deerwood Bank, utilizing multiple operating accounts, long-term loans, and a line of credit to support working capital when needed. Most notably, Deerwood Bank partnered with CRMC using USDA-guaranteed financing to assist with the purchase of real estate and assets previously owned by the hospital district, a pivotal step in strengthening the organization’s long-term sustainability as a nonprofit 501(c)(3). 

Navigating Decades of Change with a Trusted Partner 

Healthcare is an industry defined by constant change, and CRMC has faced its share of challenges. From reimbursement uncertainty to regulatory complexity, adaptability has been critical. 

When CRMC transitioned from a government hospital district to a nonprofit organization, Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements were delayed for six months. The organization needed immediate liquidity to continue operations. Deerwood Bank stepped in quickly, establishing a line of credit with minimal friction, ensuring continuity of care for patients and stability for employees. 

“That could have been a very stressful moment,” said CFO Katie Berg. “Deerwood made it easy. They understood what we were navigating and moved quickly.” 

That responsiveness has been especially valuable during periods of growth. Deerwood Bank has supported multiple expansion projects over the years, including a major orthopedic expansion in 2018, the development of care centers, and ongoing work on a cancer clinic expansion that requires heightened regulatory oversight. 

“The ability to move quickly matters,” said CEO Amy Hart. “When unexpected opportunities arise, Deerwood understands our world and can act just as quickly as we do.” 

Banking That Understands People 

Beyond large-scale financing, Deerwood Bank supports CRMC at every level of the organization. From payroll complexities to electronic funds transfers, Deerwood has helped streamline operations while staying current with evolving technology. CRMC has transitioned from physically bringing deposits to the bank to operating its own deposit machine, a change that was implemented smoothly and efficiently. 

Deerwood has also supported CRMC’s physicians directly, offering specialized physician loan programs designed for doctors entering practice with significant student debt. In moments where issues arise, whether with other financial institutions or even the Federal Reserve, Deerwood has been a trusted resource, helping CRMC staff and employees navigate solutions. 

“The communication is the biggest difference,” Amy said. “They’re always very responsible, and we have their cell phone numbers if we need them. You don’t get that with a big national bank.” 

That personal connection extends beyond the organization. Amy herself experienced Deerwood’s commitment firsthand during a personal housing crisis. Despite the loan being relatively small, Deerwood treated it with care and respect.  

“That experience changed how I viewed banking,” she said. “It showed me the value of personal service, and it’s one of the reasons we continue to do business with Deerwood. In addition to that, I’ve now moved all my personal banking to Deerwood as well.” 

Community Investment That Goes Both Ways 

CRMC is not just a healthcare provider; it is a financial and employment anchor in the region. The organization supports families, attracts highly trained physicians to rural Minnesota, and strengthens local economies. Deerwood Bank understands that impact and shares in that responsibility. 

“You see Deerwood everywhere in the community,” Katie said. “In schools, in hospitals, supporting healthy communities and healthy finances. They don’t just show up as bankers. They show up as people.” 

That shared philosophy is why CRMC has never looked elsewhere for banking services. Loyalty matters. Independence matters. And having a financial partner who values local decision-making and long-term relationships matters most of all. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, CRMC knows it doesn’t face those challenges alone. 

“The industry is challenging,” Amy said. “But Deerwood Bank is willing to work with us, adapt with us, and do what’s best for our patients and our communities.” 

For more than 60 years, CRMC and Deerwood Bank have grown together, united by a simple belief: strong communities depend on trusted partnerships.