STAMFORD, CT, June 23, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Stamford Health has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Gold Standard Top Hospital for 2026. Castle Connolly Gold Standard Top Hospitals represent the highest overall performers nationwide, with 38 hospitals earning this distinction – placing them among the top 1% of hospitals.

"Recognition from Castle Connolly reflects the unwavering dedication of our physicians and interdisciplinary teams who deliver exceptional, person-centered care to our patients every day," said Rod Acosta, MD, Chief Physician Executive. "At Stamford Health, we are committed to earning the trust of the communities we serve by combining clinical excellence with compassion, respect, and an individualized approach to each patient's experience. I'm incredibly proud of the difference we make in the lives of our patients and families."

Stamford Health is a non-profit independent healthcare system with more than 4,100 employees committed to providing high-quality health and wellness services through its 305-bed Stamford Hospital. They are nationally recognized as a top hospital for excellence in multiple procedures including hip replacement, knee replacement, and spine surgery.

The organization achieved Magnet Recognition® status from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) for the third time since 2016, placing it among 10.5% of U.S. hospitals and one of only seven in Connecticut to receive this honor. The health system also received a five-star Overall Hospital Quality rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and an "A" grade for safety from The Leapfrog Group.

Dedicated to being the community's most trusted healthcare partner, the organization prioritizes long-lasting patient relationships. In 2025, Stamford Health was re-certified with Planetree Gold Certification for Excellence in Person-Centered Care for the fourth time since 2014, joining a select group of just 100 organizations worldwide.

Stamford Health evaluates and treats a comprehensive range of medical conditions across numerous specialties. U.S. News & World Report recognized Stamford Hospital's medical performance in 12 distinct areas, naming it the number one hospital in Fairfield County and number four in Connecticut. The system manages complex cardiovascular conditions, neurological disorders, oncological diseases, and musculoskeletal conditions, ensuring the surrounding communities receive advanced clinical intervention.

The hospital provides expert medical and surgical care across several key procedural areas, including:
- Advanced specialty orthopedic care and procedures via a premier collaboration with Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS).
- Complex cardiovascular and advanced neurosurgical procedures performed by nationally recognized specialists from Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
- Comprehensive oncological treatments and protocols through a robust collaboration with Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center.

The healthcare system features integrated clinical assets, including a major teaching affiliate program, extensive outpatient networks, and on-site specialized care units. These features support an interdisciplinary framework where clinical teams coordinate care directly to optimize safety, quality, and patient satisfaction.

Stamford Health serves as a major teaching affiliate of the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons. This academic affiliation supports the rigorous training of medical residents and fellows, integrating academic medicine with community-based care. The system's medical staff includes numerous Castle Connolly Top Doctors who maintain active roles in clinical research, publishing peer-reviewed studies and contributing to advancements in medical education.

About Castle Connolly

Castle Connolly publishes its Top Doctors list at castleconnolly.com and in a variety of print and online partner publications. Nominations are open to all board-certified MDs, DOs, and DPMs. The Castle Connolly team chooses honorees based on nominee criteria that includes their medical education, training, hospital appointments, and disciplinary histories.

Doctors do not and cannot pay to be selected as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor.

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