Independence Health System’s Frick Hospital Recognized Among Most Socially Responsible in the Nation

GREENSBURG, PA, July 2, 2026 … – Independence Health System’s Frick Hospital has been named one of the most socially responsible hospitals in the nation, earning an Honor Roll spot on the 2026 Lown Hospitals Index. Only 160 out of more than 3,600 U.S. hospitals achieved this status by earning top grades across measures of health equity, value, and outcomes.

“Independence Health System’s mission is to deliver trusted care to every patient, so we are honored to be recognized for our commitment to social responsibility,” said Traci Fick, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, Chief Nursing Officer, Frick Hospital. “Earning a place on the Honor Roll represents the quality, individualized care that every provider and member of the staff at Frick Hospital offers every day. This recognition would not be possible without the dedication, compassion and commitment of our employees, whose efforts make a difference for our patients and community. We thank the Lown Institute for this distinction and for its dedication to making health equity and value a priority.” 

The Lown Hospitals Index for Social Responsibility is the only national ranking that examines how equitably care is delivered, how well hospitals invest in their communities, and whether patients receive high-value care that avoids unnecessary procedures, in addition to traditional measures like clinical outcomes and patient safety. More than 50 metrics contribute to a hospital’s overall score.

“Honor Roll status is earned by hospitals meeting the highest standards across the breadth of our metrics,” said Vikas Saini, MD, president of the Lown Institute. “They aren’t just clinically excellent, they're deeply committed to the communities they serve and work hard to ensure all patients get the care they need.”

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About Independence Health System

Nationally recognized for quality care, Independence Health System comprises Butler Memorial, Clarion, Frick, Latrobe and Westmoreland Hospitals with a combined bed count of 925. With more than 1,000 physicians and advanced practice providers and nearly 7,000 employees, the System is the third largest in western Pennsylvania serving a population base of 750,000 in a footprint spanning a multi-county region. 

The System includes tertiary programs rated among America’s best for cardiac care and surgery, earning accolades from a number of prestigious outlets and organizations. Locally owned and locally controlled, Independence Health System offers its patients low-cost, high-quality care across the care spectrum in such specialties as cardiology, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, minimally invasive and robotic surgery, women’s health and obstetrics, emergency medicine, behavioral health and primary care. Its network of outpatient centers sees more than 1.2 million visits annually. The homecare division further supports patients at all stages of life with home health and hospice services. Learn more at www.independence.health.

About the Lown Institute

The Lown Institute is an independent think tank advocating bold ideas for a just and caring system for health. We envision a healthcare system focused on what’s best for people, like hospitals caring for those most in need, patients living without fear of financial distress, and health professionals finding joy in their roles. The Lown Hospitals Index is a signature project of the Institute.