South Texas Health System Edinburg has earned the Best Regional Hospital for Community Access designation from U.S. News & World Report for the third year in a row.

The hospital is one of just 73 hospitals nationwide and among fewer than two percent of facilities evaluated to receive the distinction. It is also the only hospital in the Rio Grande Valley recognized for providing high-quality care to historically underserved populations.

"Being recognized as a Best Regional Hospital for Community Access for the third consecutive year is a tremendous honor and a reflection of our unwavering commitment to the people of the Valley," Chief Executive Officer Lance Ames said. "In a region where access to healthcare can be a significant challenge, our physicians, nurses and staff work every day to ensure patients receive the high-quality, compassionate care they need close to home. We are proud to help break down barriers to care, expand access to advanced services and improve health outcomes for the diverse communities we serve."

STHS Edinburg is one of only five hospitals in Texas to earn the distinction.

To earn the 2026-2027 designation, hospitals had to meet at least two key criteria that included providing a significant portion of inpatient care to patients from lower-income communities, delivering elective care to diverse patient populations and caring for a substantial percentage of Medicaid patients.

The Valley faces significant healthcare challenges. Starr, Hidalgo, Cameron and Willacy counties are all designated as medically underserved areas.

Poverty rates across the region range from 25.3 percent to 32.8 percent, according to U.S. Census data. Nearly 30 percent of residents lack health insurance, far exceeding the statewide average.

In 2022, STHS Edinburg opened a $105 million patient tower that more than doubled the size of the hospital. The expansion added a cardiac catheterization laboratory, expanded laboratory services and enhanced emergency, intensive care and rehabilitation services.

STHS Edinburg was also recently named a Best Regional Hospital by U.S. News & World Report for the fifth consecutive year.