What's happening: UP Health System–Bell, the local hospital in Ishpeming and serving many people in western Marquette County and eastern Baraga County, was honored as one of the 2024 Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals by the Chartis Center for Rural Health. With roughly 1,810 hospitals designated as rural by the American Hospital Association, this distinction highlights UPHS – Bell as the top five percent of rural healthcare facilities across the country. The designation is determined through the assessment of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX, recognizing institutions that excel in delivering quality care in rural settings.
Need for rural healthcare: With most of the Upper Peninsula considered rural, the need for good healthcare options is key across the region. Marquette County sticks out as one of the few areas with two hospitals within the county, with both UPHS-Marquette and UPHS-Bell. While Marquette’s hospital is larger and provides many services only available in the Upper Peninsula, Bell often handles a number of other services still needed in the area. The accolade also increases the amount of recognition for local healthcare workers in the U.P. including major awards given to hospitals in Newberry and Kingsford over the last 12 months.
What they're saying: “We’re very pleased to be recognized by Chartis,” said Mitch Leckelt, chief executive officer, UPHS – Bell. “Our top goal is to provide quality, compassionate care to our patients here in the Upper Peninsula—it’s very validating to see on paper what we work so hard for in our community each and every day.”
What's next: UPHS — Bell will continue providing service to the community, with a selection of healthcare options and emergency services.
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