FAQ

A: Caribou Medical Center is a privately owned, not-for-profit hospital. This benefits patients and community members alike for several reasons. First and foremost, we are mission driven, and not profit driven. That means we are able to prioritize community health, access, and quality of care over generating profits for shareholders. Decisions made at the executive level will reflect the long-term benefit of our community rather than short-term financial return.

Secondly, as a privately owned nonprofit, CMC isn’t subject to direct government control, unlike public hospitals. That gives us more operational flexibility than public institutions, and we still maintain accountability through our board of directors.

Additionally, our building is fully paid for and we are exempt from Federal taxes, which allows for more financial resources to be reinvested into patient care, facilities, and community health programs. 

There are some key differences between the two. While an ER handles emergencies and critical care, a clinic and urgent care center is for non-life-threatening situations. ERs are typically larger, more comprehensive, and offer advanced treatments, while clinics and urgent care centers tend to be smaller and focused on specific or immediate needs. An ER generally has higher costs compared to clinics and urgent care centers. CMC has plans to open an extended-hours clinic soon, so stay tuned!

 Preparing for surgery can help ensure a smooth procedure and a faster recovery. Here's what you should do:

• Follow Pre-Operative Instructions

• • Your surgical team will provide specific instructions tailored to your procedure. These may include:
    • When to stop eating and drinking (usually 8–12 hours before surgery)
    • What medications to take or avoid
    • Special cleansing instructions, if necessary

• Review Your Medications

  • Tell your healthcare provider about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take. Some may need to be paused before surgery, especially blood thinners or diabetes medications.

• Arrange Transportation

  • You will likely need someone to drive you home after surgery, as you won’t be able to drive yourself, especially if you receive anesthesia.

• Plan for Recovery

  • Prepare your home for your return. Stock up on groceries, arrange help if needed, and set up a comfortable resting area. Follow any activity restrictions provided by your surgeon.

• Stay Healthy Before Surgery

  • Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, get plenty of rest, and follow a healthy diet. Let your care team know if you feel sick in the days leading up to surgery.

• Ask Questions

  • Don’t hesitate to ask your surgical team anything—understanding your procedure, recovery expectations, and any risks can help you feel more confident and prepared.