OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center has been named a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital to Know by Becker’s Hospital Review, a national recognition highlighting rural hospitals that are advancing access to specialty care, reducing the burden of patient travel, strengthening community health and driving innovation in their communities.
Critical access hospitals play a vital role in the American health care system. With no more than 25 inpatient beds and a requirement to provide 24/7 emergency care, these hospitals often serve as the health care lifeline for rural communities. Becker’s editorial team selected hospitals for this recognition based on rankings and accolades from leading rural health organizations, including the National Rural Health Association and the Chartis Center for Rural Health.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our Mission Partners who serve our community with the greatest care and love every day,” said Zach Yoder, president of OSF Saint Luke. “Being named among Becker’s Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals to Know affirms our commitment to expanding access to high-quality care locally and continually finding new ways to support the health and well-being of our community.”
OSF Saint Luke is a 25-bed critical access hospital, providing a wide range of acute and outpatient services, including access to visiting specialists, rehabilitation and diagnostic imaging services, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for care. Recently, OSF Saint Luke earned five-star ratings from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and National Rural Rating System.
Beyond clinical services, OSF Saint Luke is deeply invested in the health of the Kewanee community. Recent initiatives include the installation of a community Blessing Box stocked with non-perishable food and hygiene items for neighbors in need, career exploration programs for local students and the launch of an innovation hub that brings together Mission Partners and community members to collaborate and brainstorm health care solutions.
Becker’s annual list spotlights critical access hospitals that are not only sustaining care in rural communities, but also actively shaping the future of rural health through innovation, quality improvement and community engagement.