The HCA Healthcare Mountain Division has repeated its status as one of the top 15 health systems in the nation for 2026. The division, which includes the MountainStar Healthcare network, is the only system serving Utahns to be included on the prestigious list this year.
Recognition Details
This recognition marks the fourth straight year the division has achieved this distinction. The annual study by Modern Healthcare utilizes an objective quantitative analysis conducted by Premier, Inc. to identify organizations providing consistent and sustainable high performance.
Network Composition
The Mountain Division comprises 11 hospitals and 100 total sites of care across Utah, Idaho, and Alaska. Within the MountainStar network, eight Utah hospitals are included: St. Marks Hospital, Ogden Regional Medical Center, Timpanogos Regional Hospital, Lakeview Hospital, Mountain View Hospital, Brigham City Community Hospital, Cache Valley Hospital, and Lone Peak Hospital.
Leadership Statement
Evan Ray, president of HCA Healthcare’s Mountain Division, stated that making the list for four consecutive years sends a strong message to patients and communities regarding care quality and network connectedness. He noted it is particularly meaningful to be the only health system on the list operating in Utah, Idaho, and Alaska.
Study Performance Metrics
The study evaluates performance based on clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, and patient experience. Key findings from this year's analysis showed that top performers demonstrated 22.3 percent lower inpatient mortality compared to peers, fewer healthcare-associated infections with a 28.6 percent difference, shorter average length of stay, and lower overall episode-of-care costs.
Objective Assessment Process
The identification of the top health systems is not application-based, meaning health systems do not opt in or pay for inclusion, ensuring an objective assessment. Researchers from Premier evaluated 336 health systems nationwide using publicly available data.
Premier Executive Commentary
David Zito, President of Performance Services at Premier, said the recognition highlights the Mountain Division’s focus on improving outcomes and advancing the patient experience.
