Study says Onvida Health investments expected to boost Yuma’s economy
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Onvida Health is continuing to invest millions of dollars into Yuma County, with new projects aimed at expanding healthcare access while also strengthening the local economy.
On Monday at their economic impact community luncheon, a study from a leading Arizona economist highlighted how healthcare investments can serve as a major driver for long-term economic growth in the region.
“This is quite an amenity for this community," Jim Rounds, President and CEO of Rounds Consulting Group, said. "And if I was an economic development person here, I’d love the fact that one of the most challenging ones was already checked off and I could go on to the others.”
According to the study, Onvida Health already plays a significant role in Yuma's economy. The organization makes up more than 14% of Yuma's workforce and has generated $693.3 million in total labor income in 2025.
Onvida Health President and CEO, Dr. Robert Trenschel, says the organization understands the impact it has on the community and is focused on continuing that growth.
“We’re excited to be able to be such a cornerstone for the community. And we also know that it’s a great responsibility," Trenschel said. "We’ll continue to execute on that responsibility and make sure that we’re always meeting our community’s needs.”
Several major projects are already underway or set to launch in the coming years. A new medical school in partnership with the University of Arizona - Phoenix is expected to welcome its first students this July. While additional facilities are scheduled to open in 2027. Those include a new health campus in San Luis, a health careers center aimed at building a local workforce pipeline and a Veterans Administration medical clinic.
Rounds says investments like these can create a ripple effect throughout the community. Supporting local businesses, attracting new industries and generating tax revenue that helps fund future infrastructure and development.
“They’re generating the tax revenue, which allows people to have lower tax rates. But still get the amenities and the things that they need, like infrastructure," Rounds said. "Which brings in the next business that pays for the infrastructure for the next business. It’s compound interest, but it’s compound economic development instead. It’s the same concept.”
Onvida Health leaders say the goal is to create long-term opportunities for Yuma County. Not just in healthcare, but across the broader local economy.
