Contact: Katie Glenn,, kglenn@acc.org ,

WASHINGTON (Jun 17, 2026) -

One hundred hospitals nationwide have achieved the American College of Cardiology (ACC) HeartCARE Center designation, recognizing their commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered cardiovascular care. Established in 2018, the HeartCARE Center designation is the ACC’s highest recognition for hospitals and health systems and honors organizations that demonstrate ongoing excellence through comprehensive accreditation, data-driven performance measurement and continuous quality improvement initiatives.

“Reaching 100 hospitals recognized as ACC HeartCARE Centers marks an important milestone in our ongoing effort to elevate the standard of cardiovascular care,” said Steven B. Deitelzweig, MD, MMM, FACC, chair of the ACC Accreditation Oversight Committee. “Each of these institutions has demonstrated a deep commitment to evidence-based care, continuous quality improvement and measurable outcomes—ensuring that patients receive the highest level of cardiovascular care, no matter where they live.”

Hospitals and health systems that have earned an ACC HeartCARE Center designation have met a rigorous set of criteria, including participating in at least two ACC Accreditation Services programs, NCDR registries and targeted quality improvement campaigns, such as Patient Navigator Program: Focus MI, that are designed to help hospitals and institutions close gaps in guideline-based care. By integrating accreditation, registry data and continuous performance measurement, the program enables hospitals to deliver consistent, guideline-directed care and improve outcomes for cardiovascular patients.

As part of the ACC’s broader Quality Improvement for Institutions program, HeartCARE Centers represent forward-thinking organizations that have demonstrated leadership in advancing sustainable quality improvement. Through comprehensive process improvement, disease- and procedure-specific accreditation, professional excellence and community engagement, these hospitals are helping set the standard for coordinated, patient-centered cardiovascular care and ensuring more patients have access to the highest level of heart care in their communities.

“The HeartCARE Center designation reflects more than achievement. It represents a sustained commitment to delivering high-quality care across the entire cardiovascular team,” Deitelzweig said. “As more hospitals meet these rigorous standards, more patients benefit from improved outcomes, greater consistency in care delivery and access to the latest, guideline-driven treatments that can truly transform heart health.”

To see the full list of the first 100 ACC HeartCARE Centers and for more information, visit: ACC HeartCARE Centers of Excellence

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is a global leader dedicated to transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. For more than 75 years, the ACC has empowered a community of over 60,000 cardiovascular professionals across more than 140 countries with cutting-edge education and advocacy, rigorous professional credentials, and trusted clinical guidance. From its world-class JACC Journals and NCDR registries to its Accreditation Services, global network of Chapters and Sections, and CardioSmart patient initiatives, the College is committed to creating a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at www.ACC.org or connect on social media at @ACCinTouch.

 

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