Salem VA Health Care System recently announced its second consecutive 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), ranking it among the nation’s top-performing facilities. This prestigious award highlights Salem VA’s exceptional performance in critical areas like patient experience, safety and readmission rates.
Only 13% of hospitals reviewed across the nation achieved this elite 5-star status in 2024. Salem VA’s 5-star rating reflects the system’s unwavering commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to Veterans across Southwest Virginia.
“The exceptional proficiency and unwavering dedication of our staff to serving Veterans is clearly demonstrated through this 5-star designation,” said Rebecca Stackhouse, executive director of Salem VA Health Care System. “We understand Veterans have choices in their healthcare providers, and this rating reinforces our commitment to delivering exceptional care every day.”
The CMS star ratings, based on 47 quality measures across five critical categories—mortality, safety, readmission, patient experience, and timely and effective care—provide a comprehensive benchmark of healthcare quality. Earning a 5-star rating signifies Salem VA’s above-average performance, reflecting its dedication to excellence in every facet of care.
How Do the CMS Star Ratings Work?
CMS star ratings provide a clear snapshot of a healthcare facility’s performance:
- 4- or 5-Star Rating: Indicates above-average performance and a high standard of care.
- 3-Star Rating: This rating reflects good care and is consistent with most hospitals nationwide.
- 1- or 2-Star Rating: Suggests below-average performance but does not necessarily imply poor care.
As one of the leading VA healthcare systems in the nation, Salem VA’s 5-star rating highlights the exceptional effort required to meet and maintain such high standards, the provider said. This accolade celebrates current success while also reinforcing the system’s commitment to continuous improvement and the delivery of outstanding, patient-centered care.
The Salem VA Health Care System in comprised of community-based VA clinics in Staunton, Lynchburg, Tazewell, Danville and Wytheville as well as the Medical Center in Salem, serving over 35,000 Veterans throughout 26 counties in Southwest Virginia. The Salem VAHCS is proud to offer Veterans primary care, inpatient and outpatient mental health services, surgical services, and a wide range of specialty care.
With the recent passage of the PACT Act, which expands eligibility for Veterans exposed to toxic substances, veterans are encouraged to explore their eligibility for healthcare services. For more enrollment information, visit The PACT Act and Your VA Benefits | Veterans Affairs or contact Salem VA’s Enrollment and Eligibility office at (540) 982-2463 ext. 1010.
-The Salem Times-Register
