Haywood Regional Medical Center has received an ‘A’ grade in the latest Hospital Safety Grade ratings from The Leapfrog Group, marking its second consecutive top score. The hospital also earned an ‘A’ in spring 2025. The Leapfrog Group evaluates hospitals nationwide on measures such as prevention of medication errors, infections, and complications.
The safety grades are released twice a year and use more than 30 indicators to assess both outcomes and systems that support safe care. The methodology behind these ratings is peer-reviewed and transparent, allowing patients and community members to review the data that contributes to each hospital’s score.
“We are proud to receive our second consecutive ‘A’ from The Leapfrog Group,” said Sue Shugart, FACHE, CPPS, chief executive officer of Haywood Regional Medical Center. “This recognition reflects the daily commitment of our teams, whose focus remains on providing care that is safe, steady, and centered on the people we serve. I appreciate the professionalism and dedication they bring to every patient interaction.”
The hospital continues to improve its safety culture through collaboration among clinical and support departments, enhanced communication practices, and ongoing use of data for decision-making. These initiatives aim to ensure coordinated care for patients.
Haywood Regional Medical Center states that it remains committed to consistent care quality and working with patients and families for safer experiences across the organization.
More information about Haywood Regional Medical Center’s fall 2025 results can be found at HospitalSafetyGrade.org.



