Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital (SYVCH) has earned a 5-star rating from the National Rural Rating System (NRRS), which recognizes excellence and commitment in rural healthcare. SYVCH has also been named to the National Rural Honor Roll.
“This designation is a testament to SYVCH’s dedication to delivering high-quality care and meaningful patient experiences,” the hospital said.
The NRRS evaluates hospitals based on rigorous standards, including patient satisfaction, quality of care and overall hospital performance.
“We take great pride in being a trusted source of care for the Santa Ynez Valley community,” said Katie Gorndt, vice president/SYVCH. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it underscores the trust our community places in us and highlights our commitment to delivering exceptional care.”
The 5-star rating reflects SYVCH’s ongoing commitment to meet the unique healthcare needs of the rural community it serves, she said.
“This recognition highlights the hospital’s success in providing outstanding medical services, despite the challenges often faced by rural healthcare facilities,” SYVCH said.
The 2025 National Rural Honor Roll honorees include rural hospitals that have met the highest standards for patient experience, based on cumulative ratings submitted by Oct. 31, 2024.
The annual recognition reinforces NRHA’s commitment to supporting and uplifting rural health care facilities as pillars of their communities.
“These awards really shine a spotlight on the heart and hard work that our rural hospitals bring to their communities,” says Brock Slabach, COO of the National Rural Health Association. “Rural healthcare comes with unique challenges, and reaching this level of excellence shows not only the clinical expertise but also the deep commitment these hospitals have to the people they serve.
“This recognition celebrates rural healthcare as a source of strength, compassion, and healing — right where it’s needed most.”
The 5 Star Rating System ranks rural and critical access hospitals, with five stars being the top ranking and one star being the lowest.
The Star Ratings are like the CMS Stars, which allow hospitals/clinics to promote their success and are used as high-quality recognitions.
Most small and rural hospitals (60%) do not qualify because of low number of qualifying inpatients for the CMS Rankings but are held to the same high patient satisfaction criteria.
The rankings will include overnight hospital stays (HCAHPS) and are based on data collected by certified CMS patient satisfaction vendors.
The National Rural Honor Roll was created to honor rural and critical access hospitals and clinics that consistently deliver exceptional healthcare, showcasing them as leaders in patient-centered care within their communities.
Facilities included on the Honor Roll receive recognition for their dedication and excellence that sets them apart.