Hospital Compare
The Hospital Compare website was developed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with the Hospital Quality Alliance (HQA). The HQA brings together organizations representing consumers, hospitals, healthcare professionals, employers, accrediting bodies, and federal agencies.
Hospital Compare provides quality-of-care information on more than 4,000 Medicare-certified hospitals, including over 130 Veterans Administration medical centers and 50+ military hospitals. This tool helps patients and healthcare providers compare hospitals nationwide to make informed care decisions.
What you can find
Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating
A single star rating combining multiple quality measures for easier comparison.
General Information
Basic hospital details, including name, address, phone number, and type.
Survey of Patients’ Experiences (HCAHPS)
Patient feedback on communication, responsiveness, and overall experience.
Timely & Effective Care
How quickly hospitals provide recommended treatments and use imaging services (CT, MRI) appropriately.
Complications & Deaths
Rates of complications during or after hospitalization and 30-day mortality rates for certain conditions.
Unplanned Hospital Visits
Readmission rates and time spent during return stays.
Psychiatric Unit Services
Quality of care in psychiatric hospitals or units, covering preventive care, screening, substance use treatment, safety, and follow-up.
Payment & Value of Care
Comparison of hospital costs with national averages, linked to quality outcomes.
How to use this information
By reviewing Hospital Compare data with your healthcare provider, you can identify hospitals that meet your needs for quality, efficiency, and specialized services. Data is typically 9–12 months old, covers a one-year period, and is updated quarterly.
Hospital Compare. (n.d.). About Hospital Compare. Hospital Compare. https://hospitalcompare.io/about
