Northeastern Pennsylvania -
Hundreds of hospitals across the country are being recognized for keeping patients safe, but Pennsylvania is standing out as one of the nation’s top performers.
According to the Healthgrades 2026 Patient Safety Excellence Awards, 438 hospitals across 40 states ranked among the top 10% nationwide for patient safety. Among them, Pennsylvania earned a place in the top five states with the highest number of recognized hospitals, joining larger states like Texas, Florida, California, and Ohio.
This distinction highlights Pennsylvania’s strong healthcare infrastructure and commitment to patient safety, with dozens of hospitals across the Commonwealth achieving top-tier performance. These facilities are being recognized for their ability to prevent serious, avoidable complications during hospital stays—an increasingly critical benchmark in today’s healthcare landscape.
The Healthgrades analysis evaluated hospitals based on 13 key patient safety indicators, including some of the most common and severe in-hospital risks. Patients treated at award-winning hospitals experienced significantly better outcomes, including:
52.4% lower risk of falls resulting in fractures
57.5% lower risk of procedure-related collapsed lungs
67.8% lower risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections
71.9% lower risk of pressure sores
Together, these measures account for the majority of in-hospital safety events—underscoring the real-world impact of high-performing hospitals across Pennsylvania and the nation.
If all hospitals performed at the same level as this year’s award recipients, more than 100,000 patient safety events could have been avoided between 2022 and 2024, according to Healthgrades.
“The data behind this year’s Patient Safety Excellence Award highlights how measurable safety improvements can prevent thousands of complications,” said Dr. Alana Biggers, medical advisor at Healthgrades. “Hospitals that prioritize evidence-based safety practices not only achieve better clinical outcomes but also create a culture where patients come first.”
While population size can influence the number of recognized hospitals, Pennsylvania’s presence on this list reflects more than scale—it signals consistent performance across a diverse network of healthcare providers serving both urban and rural communities.
Notably, Pennsylvania’s recognition comes as some states had no hospitals included on the list, pointing to disparities in access and care across the country. In contrast, the Commonwealth continues to demonstrate strength in delivering safe, high-quality care.
For Northeastern Pennsylvania, this recognition adds to the region’s growing list of competitive advantages—from infrastructure and workforce to affordability and location. A strong healthcare system plays a vital role in attracting and retaining employers, supporting families, and ensuring long-term regional growth.
As Pennsylvania continues to lead in patient safety, NEPA stands out as a place where quality healthcare and economic opportunity go hand in hand.
