Submitted by Ryma Lindquist, WWH
BALDWIN, WI – Western Wisconsin Health (WWH) is honored to announce that it has been named among the 2025 Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. This annual award program recognizes outstanding performance among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®.
“This recognition is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the unwavering dedication of our entire team,” said Eilidh Pederson, Chief Executive Officer of Western Wisconsin Health. “Our providers, nurses, and staff work tirelessly to deliver high-quality, compassionate care to our patients and community. Being recognized as one of the top 100 Critical Access Hospitals, out of the 3,500 that exist in the country, is a true honor. We are incredibly proud of this achievement, which underscores our commitment to excellence in rural healthcare.”
“The Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals award program elevates the very best performers and helps create a roadmap for those seeking to improve financial and operational performance while continuing to care for the communities they serve,” said Michael Topchik, Executive Director, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “This is our 15th year recognizing the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate this milestone with this year’s winners.”
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 a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.
Western Wisconsin Health is honored to receive this designation and remains committed to providing exceptional healthcare services to the communities they serve. WWH extends our deepest gratitude to our dedicated team for their hard work and to our patients for trusting us with their care. As WWH continues to redefine rural healthcare, we strive to enhance access, provide patient-centered care, and foster community partnerships to help achieve our mission of building a healthier tomorrow, together.
