For the ninth time in its history, NMC Health has been recognized as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital in the United States. This prestigious designation, awarded by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, distinguishes NMC Health as a premier leader in clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, and patient experience.

Out of the hundreds of hospitals evaluated across the state, NMC Health is one of only three hospitals in Kansas to earn this honor for 2026.

“The delivery of care within rural communities is perhaps more complex today than at any point in recent memory. This year’s Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals have emerged as true leaders – committed to their mission through a powerful combination of resilience, dedication and innovation,” said Michael Topchik, Executive Director of The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “We’re delighted to recognize this year’s winners and celebrate their Top 100 status.”

Now in its 16^th year, the INDEX is the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the INDEX is utilized nationwide by rural hospitals, health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure and monitor performance across eight pillars of performance, including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, and cost.

“Being named a Top 100 hospital for the ninth time is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our entire team,” said Val Gleason, President and CEO of NMC Health. “At the heart of this recognition is our fundamental vision to improve health for every individual in our community. This honor validates that our focus on clinical excellence and compassionate care is making a measurable difference in the lives of those we serve.”

As healthcare landscapes shift, NMC Health continues to set the standard for rural health by integrating advanced medical technology with a personalized, community-focused approach. By maintaining its status as a top-performing hospital, NMC Health ensures that residents of Newton and the surrounding regions have access to nationally recognized care close to home.

“In an era where rural healthcare faces significant challenges, NMC Health remains a beacon of stability and excellence,” Gleason added. “We are proud that our medical staff and employees represent Kansas on the national stage in their commitment to raising the bar for what community healthcare can achieve.”

For more information about NMC Health’s award-winning services and its commitment to the community, please visit www.mynmchealth.org.