UCHealth Memorial Hospital has been recognized as one of best in the U.S. at providing quality health care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.

The medical center was one of 53 hospitals in 26 states recognized by U.S. News and World Report as the nation’s “Best Regional Hospitals for Equitable Access.”

Announced at a Washington, D.C., event titled “The State of Equity in America,” the new accolade highlighted hospitals that focus on caring for patients in less affluent communities, according to a Wednesday news release. UCHealth Memorial was the only Colorado hospital to receive the recognition.

To be eligible for recognition, a hospital had to meet at least two of three qualifying criteria: 40% or more of its patients live in a community of greater socioeconomic deprivation (according to the Area Deprivation Index); serve 20% or more racial/ethnic minority patients; or serve 20% or more Medicaid patients.

Last year, UCHealth teams provided $249 million in community benefits, including $120 million in care “for our neighbors who could not afford to pay,” according to regional President and CEO Lonnie Cramer.

“UCHealth’s 2023 community benefits dollars are focused on caring for the state’s most vulnerable patients; expanding critical services like primary care, specialty care and behavioral health to meet growing patient needs; and improving community health,” Cramer said.

“I am deeply proud to be part of an organization that always strives to bring innovative high-quality advance care to those in our community.”

The health care system has launched several initiatives aimed at improving health care services in the region. Earlier this year, UCHealth unveiled its second Mobile Stroke Treatment Unit that serves Colorado Springs full time. The unit, equipped with a CT scanner, lab testing equipment, a telehealth system and stroke treatment specialists, can diagnose and treat the debilitating effects of a stroke before the patient gets to the hospital.

UCHealth also recently partnered with the Colorado Springs Fire Department to initiate the state’s first pre-hospital whole blood program and has connected unhoused military veterans to transitional housing through its Next Chapter program.

“Our commitment also goes outside our hospital walls,” Cramer said.

U.S. News senior health data analyst Tavia Binger said the list highlights the efforts of hospitals across the U.S., but also shows that even more work needs to be done to provide high-quality care to citizens who need it most.

“This positive representation of community hospitals’ dedication to equitable access across 26 states is promising,” Binger said. “However, this recognition also underscores the need for continued focus on prioritizing health care among vulnerable populations who may face numerous social and economic challenges in receiving care.”