Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center named to Becker’s “100 critical access hospitals to know” list

Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center (MAHHC), a member of Dartmouth Health, has been named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s 2026 “100 critical access hospitals to know” list.

Critical access hospitals like MAHHC play a unique role in the American healthcare system, providing essential services close to home while operating with limited resources. Becker’s noted that the hospitals included on the list are expanding access to specialty care, reducing the burden of patient travel and bringing meaningful improvements to community health.

Since its establishment in 1933, MAHHC has built a reputation for patient-centered care and deep community connection throughout the region. The hospital has strengthened services and access to care through initiatives like expanded walk-in care hours, recruitment of six advanced practice providers and a general surgeon, instituted key administrative roles and programs like director of quality and safety, director of community health, and a hospitalist program.

Through its affiliation with Dartmouth Health, patients also have access to specialty services, including ophthalmology surgical care provided locally at MAHHC.

“This recognition is a testament to the extraordinary dedication of every provider, nurse, and team member at Mt. Ascutney Hospital,” said Matthew R. Foster, MD, MMM, CEO and president of MAHHC. “As a critical access hospital, we’re proud to ensure that trusted, expert care remains rooted right in our community. "

In addition to this recognition from Becker’s, the hospital was also named a “Best-In-State Hospital” by Newsweek in 2024.

Becker’s Hospital Review developed the list through editorial research and nominations, referencing rankings and recognitions from organizations including the National Rural Health Association and the Chartis Center for Rural Health. Hospitals do not pay for inclusion on the list.

The full list is available here.