The Washington State Hospital Association has recognized 20 rural hospitals for their efforts in quality improvement with the 2025 Critical Access Hospital Achievement of Excellence distinction.

This achievement highlights the contributions of critical access hospitals, which are defined as facilities with 25 or fewer beds located more than 35 miles from another hospital, providing 24/7 emergency care services.

Among those recognized is Whitman Hospital & Medical Clinics in Colfax, which received a silver award based on its performance across various factors such as workplace safety, diagnostic accuracy, and initiatives aimed at reducing health disparities.