Stamford Health has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Gold Standard Top Hospital for 2026, an honor that places it among the top 1% of hospitals nationwide. Only 38 hospitals earned this distinction, reflecting the highest overall performance in the country. The recognition underscores the health system's dedication to clinical excellence and patient-centered care.
Dr. Rod Acosta, Chief Physician Executive at Stamford Health, attributed the achievement to the hard work of physicians and interdisciplinary teams. "Recognition from Castle Connolly reflects the unwavering dedication of our physicians and interdisciplinary teams who deliver exceptional, person-centered care to our patients every day," he said. "At Stamford Health, we are committed to earning the trust of the communities we serve by combining clinical excellence with compassion, respect, and an individualized approach to each patient's experience."
Stamford Health is a non-profit independent healthcare system with more than 4,100 employees. Its 305-bed Stamford Hospital is nationally recognized for excellence in hip replacement, knee replacement, and spine surgery. The organization has achieved Magnet Recognition® status from the American Nurses Credentialing Center for the third time since 2016, placing it among 10.5% of U.S. hospitals. It also received a five-star Overall Hospital Quality rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and an "A" grade for safety from The Leapfrog Group.
In 2025, Stamford Health was re-certified with Planetree Gold Certification for Excellence in Person-Centered Care for the fourth time since 2014, joining a select group of just 100 organizations worldwide. U.S. News & World Report recognized Stamford Hospital's medical performance in 12 distinct areas, naming it the number one hospital in Fairfield County and number four in Connecticut.
The health system provides advanced care through collaborations with leading institutions. Orthopedic care is delivered via a premier collaboration with Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). Complex cardiovascular and neurosurgical procedures are performed by specialists from Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Comprehensive oncological treatments are offered through a robust partnership with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center. Stamford Health also serves as a major teaching affiliate of the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, supporting the training of medical residents and fellows.
Castle Connolly publishes its Top Doctors list based on nominations from board-certified physicians, evaluating medical education, training, hospital appointments, and disciplinary histories. Doctors do not pay for selection.
