Penn Highlands Elk Earns Top Rankings In 2026 Lown Institute Hospital Index

The hospital is recognized in the categories of Health Equity, Value of Care, Patient Outcomes and Social Responsibility.

Penn Highlands Elk has been named one of the most socially responsible hospitals in the nation for the second consecutive year, earning an Honor Roll spot on the 2026 Lown Hospitals Index.

Out of more than 3,600 U.S. hospitals evaluated, only 160 achieved Honor Roll status by earning top grades across measures of health equity, value and outcomes. Penn Highlands Elk was recognized as an Honor Roll Critical Access Hospital, a distinction earned by just 5% of the 900 critical access facilities surveyed nationwide.

The hospital also ranked number one across Pennsylvania in three core performance categories, including Health Equity, Value of Care and Social Responsibility, and achieved a top “A” grade for Patient Outcomes.

“We’re proud to set the benchmark for rural healthcare excellence in our region,” said Julie Peer, President of Penn Highlands Elk. “Earning a spot on the Lown Index for the second year in a row — and ranking number one in Pennsylvania in several key categories — is a direct reflection of our team’s daily dedication. Every doctor, nurse and staff member works to ensure our patients receive compassionate, top-quality medical care close to home.”

The Lown Hospitals Index for Social Responsibility is the only national ranking that examines how equitably care is delivered, how well hospitals invest in their communities and whether patients receive high-value care that avoids unnecessary procedures, in addition to traditional measures like clinical outcomes and patient safety. More than 50 metrics contribute to a hospital’s overall score.

“Honor Roll status is earned by hospitals meeting the highest standards across the breadth of our metrics,” said Vikas Saini, MD, president of the Lown Institute. “They aren’t just clinically excellent; they’re deeply committed to the communities they serve and work hard to ensure all patients get the care they need.”

About the Lown Institute

The Lown Institute is an independent think tank advocating bold ideas for a just and caring system for health. The Institute envisions a healthcare system focused on what’s best for people, like hospitals caring for those most in need, patients living without fear of financial distress and health professionals finding joy in their roles. The Lown Hospitals Index is a signature project of the Institute.