South Central Reporter

HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital Breese, serving the rural community for over 125 years, has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals in the United States for 2025. This honor is awarded by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, which uses its INDEX to assess performance in patient care, finances, and hospital operations.

Additionally, the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) named HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital among their Top 20 Rural & Community Hospitals, using the Chartis Center’s metrics. The NRHA’s recognition considers factors such as inpatient and outpatient market share, quality, outcomes, patient perspective, cost, charge, and finance.

“We are honored to be recognized again as one of the Top Rural & Community Hospitals in the U.S.,” said Mandi Ennen, HSHS St. Joseph’s Chief Administrative Officer. “This achievement is only possible because of the outstanding work and service provided by our medical staff members, colleagues, and volunteers. It demonstrates our commitment to providing high-quality care, exceptional patient experience, operational excellence and economic stability for our community.”

Michael Topchik, Executive Director of The Chartis Center for Rural Health, added, “The Top 100 Rural & Community 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. This is our 10th year recognizing the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals and we’re thrilled to be able to celebrate this milestone with this year’s winners.”

The Chartis INDEX, a comprehensive assessment of rural hospital performance, is employed nationwide by various organizations to evaluate and monitor hospital operations and finance.