Southwest Health System in Cortez was named to Becker’s 2026 list of 100 Great Community Hospitals for its exceptional service in a rural community. (Courtesy of Southwest Health System/Journal file)
Yearly selection features rural hospitals through nominations and data
Southwest Health System has been named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s 100 Great Community Hospitals list for 2026.
The national distinction is given to community hospitals that “deliver exceptional, high-quality care and serve as vital healthcare anchors” in the communities they call home.
The list is published every year and recognizes hospitals that are committed to “accessible, affordable and high-quality care,” especially in rural and underserved communities.
“We are honored to be recognized among the nation’s great community hospitals,” Joe Theine, Southwest Health Systems CEO, said. “This achievement reflects the dedication of our physicians, nurses and staff, who are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality care close to home for the patients and families we serve.”
The recognized hospitals were applauded for their outstanding clinical care despite limited resources.
“This recognition underscores the important role community hospitals play in supporting the health and well-being of their communities,” Theine said. “We are proud to serve as a trusted healthcare partner for Southwest Colorado.”
Organizations on the list were selected through nominations and data from leading healthcare evaluators like U.S. News & World Report, Healthgrades, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, The Leapfrog Group, the National Rural Health Association and The Chartis Center for Rural Health.
bduran@the-journal.com
