CRMC Earns 5-Star Rating for Nurse Communication

Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC) has earned a 5-Star Rating for Nurse Communication from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This recognition places CRMC among a select group of hospitals across the country known for providing excellent communication and patient care.

The rating is based on patient survey responses collected between July 2024 and June 2025. The results were released by CMS on May 15, 2026. Becker’s Hospital Review later recognized hospitals in each state that earned the highest Nurse Communication rating.

What Is the Nurse Communication Rating?

The CMS Nurse Communication rating measures how patients feel about their interactions with nurses during a hospital stay. Patients are asked whether nurses:

• Listened carefully
• Explained things in a way they could understand
• Treated them with courtesy and respect

These survey responses help measure the overall patient experience and quality of care provided by a hospital.

“Good communication is a key part of great patient care,” said Stacy Weldon, Chief Hospital and Nursing Officer at Cuyuna Regional Medical Center. “This recognition reflects the compassion, professionalism, and dedication our nurses show every day. We are honored that our patients value the care, support, and education they receive from our nursing teams.”

A Team Effort

CMS publishes star ratings that measure different parts of the patient experience. The Nurse Communication rating highlights the important role nurses play in helping patients feel informed, respected, and supported.

CRMC’s 5-Star Rating reflects the work of nurses across the organization, including inpatient care, emergency services, procedural areas, and clinics. Their commitment to patient-centered care helps create a positive experience for patients and families.

“This achievement belongs to every member of our nursing team,” Weldon said. “Their commitment to compassionate, high-quality care makes a difference in the lives of our patients every day. While we celebrate this recognition, we remain focused on improving the patient experience and providing excellent care close to home.”

As a community-owned, nonprofit healthcare organization, CRMC remains committed to providing high-quality healthcare services and compassionate care for the communities it serves.