CRMC Named as “100 Critical Access Hospitals to Know”
Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC), a community-owned, nonprofit Critical Access Hospital, has been named to the Becker’s Hospital Review list of the “100 Critical Access Hospitals to Know,” a national recognition highlighting rural hospitals that are expanding access, strengthening care, and driving innovation in their communities.
What It Means to Be a Critical Access Hospital
Critical Access Hospitals play a vital role in the American healthcare system. With a maximum of 25 inpatient beds and the responsibility of providing 24/7 emergency care, these hospitals deliver essential services while often doing far more with far less. The organizations on this list are recognized for expanding access to specialty care, reducing the need for long-distance travel, and improving health outcomes in their regions. CRMC is the only hospital in its immediate area to be included.
At CRMC, that commitment shows up in both growth and day-to-day care. In 2025 alone, the organization performed more than 11,180 surgeries, supported by fellowship-trained surgeons and a strong focus on advanced, high-quality surgical care.
That same momentum is driving expansion across the system. CRMC is building a new Oncology department to ensure patients facing cancer can receive care closer to home and will open a new clinic in Nisswa this fall—further extending access throughout the Brainerd Lakes region.
Together, these efforts reflect a clear focus: keeping care close, expanding access, and meeting the growing needs of the community.
A Record of Recognized Excellence
CRMC has also earned multiple recognitions, including consecutive Outstanding Patient Experience Awards from Healthgrades, national rankings from U.S. News & World Report and Newsweek, and the Minnesota Hospital Association’s Community Benefit Award for addressing food insecurity.
CRMC remains focused on its mission to deliver exceptional care and compassion every day while continuing to grow services, technology, and access for the region.