Clay Reporter

NKC Health has received High Performing ratings in 14 areas of care from U.S. News and World Report’s Best Regional Hospitals 2025-2026 rankings, an increase from seven last year. The health system was also recognized for High Performing Maternity Care (Uncomplicated Pregnancy) for 2025.

“Quality care has always been our focus,” said Stephen Reintjes Sr., MD, president and CEO of NKC Health. “We are constantly seeking ways to expand our capabilities and deepen our knowledge – always with our patients’ best interests in mind. This recognition is a testament to those ongoing efforts.”

Some procedures and conditions at NKC Health have maintained consecutive High Performing rankings, while this year’s list includes newly recognized areas and the return of others previously honored. These include heart failure (nine consecutive years), knee replacement (eight consecutive years), colon cancer surgery (seven consecutive years), heart attack (five consecutive years), hip replacement (two consecutive years), kidney failure (two consecutive years), abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, back surgery (spinal fusion), diabetes, heart arrhythmia, hip fracture, leukemia/lymphoma/myeloma, pacemaker implantation, and transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

The High Performing designation reflects a hospital’s specialized expertise and commitment to care. U.S. News and World Report evaluates more than 4,400 hospitals annually but only about one-third receive this distinction. Rankings are based on measures such as risk-adjusted mortality rates, preventable complications, and nursing care levels.

Further details on the rankings can be found at U.S. News and World Report’s hospital rankings.