TMC Health Foundation Receives a $500,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation, Benefiting TMC Rincon

TMC Health Foundation Receives a $500,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation, Benefiting TMC Rincon

Investment will expand virtual patient care and address critical healthcare disparities across Southern Arizona

TUCSON, Ariz. — (June 30, 2026) — The TMC Health Foundation has received a $500,000 grant from the James M. Cox Foundation to expand virtual healthcare access and services at TMC Rincon, advancing care for underserved populations across Southern Arizona. The investment will help extend a proven virtual care model that connects patients and bedside teams with remote clinicians in real time—improving access, responsiveness and quality of care in communities facing geographic and provider shortages.

The funding will support the expansion of TMC Rincon’s virtual care model across two inpatient floors, activating approximately 44 additional beds and enhancing services for an estimated 2,700 to 3,200 patients annually. Using secure virtual technology and dedicated telehealth workstations, physicians, case managers and pharmacists can connect instantly with patients and care teams—answering questions, supporting discharge planning and coordinating treatment without requiring travel or transfers.

“We are deeply grateful to the James M. Cox Foundation for this generous investment in the health of our community,” said Shaun Phillips, CEO of TMC Rincon. “This support allows us to expand our virtual care capabilities, ensuring patients receive timely guidance from clinicians and specialists while enabling our bedside teams to focus on direct, hands-on care.”

The need for expanded access is especially urgent in Southern Arizona’s rural and underserved regions. According to AHCCCS data, rural Arizonans travel an average of 20 miles to the nearest hospital, with some traveling more than 150 miles to receive care. In Pima County alone, there are 52 federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas, and 68% of Cochise County residents report leaving their county to access services—highlighting persistent gaps in care availability.

The virtual care model helps close these gaps by enabling immediate clinical support regardless of location. For example, a patient’s concern about medications can be resolved through a virtual pharmacist consultation, discharge plans can be coordinated by remote case managers, and urgent symptoms can trigger rapid clinical triage—all without delay. By bringing specialty expertise directly to the bedside through technology, TMC Health improves patient safety, reduces readmissions and ensures more equitable access to care.

“At Cox, we believe that where you live should never determine the quality of healthcare you receive,” said Stephanie Healy, Southern Arizona Market Vice President, Cox Communications. “We are grateful that the gift from the James M. Cox Foundation will help expand innovative, technology-enabled care that removes barriers, strengthens care teams and connects more patients to the services they need—when and where they need them.”

The investment builds on early success from TMC Health’s virtual care pilot, which demonstrated faster response times, improved patient outcomes and enhanced patient education. By expanding this model at TMC Rincon, the organization is strengthening its ability to deliver coordinated, patient-centered care closer to home while addressing critical health equity challenges across the region.

“Philanthropic support is vital to strengthening nonprofit health care systems and ensuring we can meet the evolving needs of our community,” said Deb Dale, TMC Health Foundation vice president and chief development officer. “The James M. Cox Foundation’s generosity reflects a deep commitment to the health and well‑being of Southern Arizonans, and we are profoundly grateful for their partnership and for the meaningful impact this investment will have on patients and families who rely on our care.”

About the James M. Cox Foundation

The James M. Cox Foundation is named in honor of Cox Enterprises' founder and provides funding for capital campaigns and special projects in communities where the company operates. James M. Cox was Ohio's first three-term governor and the 1920 Democratic nominee for president of the United States. The Foundation concentrates its community support in several areas, including biodiversity, conservation and environment; early childhood education; health; and empowering families and individuals for success. 

About TMC Health Foundation
TMC Health Foundation supports the mission of TMC Health by funding programs that expand access to compassionate, community‑centered care. Through donor‑driven initiatives, the Foundation helps address unmet health needs across Southern Arizona. Its work enhances wellness and strengthens resources for individuals and families throughout the region.

About TMC Health
TMC Health is a nonprofit health system serving Southern Arizona through a network of hospitals, primary care and specialty practices. With a focus on quality, compassion and innovation, TMC Health provides care that is centered on the needs of the community. Its Southern Arizona-based team is committed to improving health and wellness for people across the region.