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Mark your calendars for an inspiring celebration of the Power of Rural on November 20, 2025, as we come together for National Rural Health Day! 
This special day is dedicated to honoring the unique spirit, resilience, and innovation found in rural communitues across the nation. 


Hampshire Memorial Hospital: 

Top 20 Critical Access Hospital for 2025

Hampshire Memorial Hospital, located in Romney, West Virginia, has achieved a significant milestone by being named one of the National Rural Health Association's (NRHA) Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) for 2025. This prestigious recognition underscores the hospital's unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality healthcare in a rural setting.


The foundation for this award is the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX, which provides a comprehensive, data-driven assessment of rural hospital performance across the United States. The INDEX rigorously evaluates hospitals based on numerous factors, including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, and financial stability. Earning a spot in the Top 20 demonstrates Hampshire Memorial Hospital's excellence across these critical operational and clinical areas when compared to hundreds of other rural hospitals nationwide.


This recent accolade is one of many distinctions Hampshire Memorial Hospital has garnered in recognition of its dedication to healthcare excellence. As a Critical Access Hospital, Hampshire Memorial plays a vital role in the regional health infrastructure. It is specifically structured to offer essential inpatient and outpatient care, as well as crucial emergency services, to the more than 23,000 residents of Hampshire County. Furthermore, the hospital extends its services to neighboring communities in parts of Mineral, Grant, and Hardy counties, serving as a critical lifeline for medical needs in this expansive, largely rural area.


The hospital's ability to maintain high performance standards has been bolstered since it joined the Valley Health system in 2008. This affiliation has provided Hampshire Memorial with access to broader resources, specialized expertise, and a larger network of care, ultimately enhancing the scope and quality of services available to its local population. The Top 20 CAH designation is a testament to the success of this partnership and the dedication of the hospital's staff, physicians, and leadership in fulfilling their mission to the community.


About


The West Virginia State Office of Rural Health (WV SORH), established in 1990, is a federal​-state partnership authorized by state legislation. The mission of the WV SORH is to implement programs and promote ​best practice models through collaboration with stakeholders, for the purpose of addressing rural health care.



Responsibilities


In order to pursue our vision creating ​access to health care services and improved outcomes for our citizens, the WV SORH is charged with:

  • Designing and implementing a strategic plan aimed at addressing rural health needs
  • Managing federal rural health funds
  • Addressing declines in the health care delivery system
  • Addressing issues in physician recruitment and access to care
  • Coordinating with existing healthcare groups and agencies