Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital earned a five-star rating for patient experience from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Hospital President Brad Lowery said the federal agency awarded the distinction to only 250 hospitals nationwide. The score represents the highest possible rating based on data published by Becker’s Hospital Review.
“Patient feedback gives us valuable insight into how our neighbors experience care at our hospital,” Lowery said. “We want every patient to feel heard, respected and supported throughout their stay, and I’m grateful to our care teams for the attention and compassion they bring to each interaction.”
Lowery said the rating system uses the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey to measure patient experiences during recent hospital stays. The data used for the current rankings includes surveys collected from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
The survey evaluates communication with medical staff, responsiveness to needs, discharge information, and the hospital environment. Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital is a 60-bed medical-surgical facility that has served Sparta since 1929.
The press release said the hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission and maintains a staff of 120 clinicians with privileges. The facility provides surgical services, advanced heart care, rehabilitation, and 24/7 emergency care.
Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital also operates a 14-bed behavioral and mental health unit. The press release said the hospital is a member of the Saint Thomas Stroke Network.