March 2, 20
26 – Virginia Gay Hospital in Vinton, IA announced it has been recognized as a 2026 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. The Top 100 awards program celebrates outstanding performance annually among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®.
“This recognition reflects the extraordinary dedication of our providers, nurses, and staff who deliver high-quality, compassionate care every day,” said Tina Eden, CEO of Virginia Gay Hospital. “As a rural hospital, we are proud to combine personal, hometown care with innovative services that ensure our community has access to excellent healthcare close to home. Being named a Top 100 Critical Access Hospital affirms our commitment to serving patients and families throughout Benton County and the surrounding region.”
“The delivery of care within rural communities is perhaps more complex today than at any point in recent memory. This year’s Top 100 Critical Access 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 16th 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 a variety of areas impacting hospital operations, quality, patient perspective and finance.
About Virginia Gay Hospital
Virginia Gay Hospital is a nonprofit Critical Access Hospital located in Vinton, Iowa, dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. The hospital provides a full range of high-quality healthcare services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, specialty clinics, and rehabilitation therapies. With a strong focus on patient-centered care, community partnerships, and continuous improvement, Virginia Gay Hospital remains committed to delivering exceptional healthcare close to home. Website: www.myvgh.org
