Leading Healthcare Systems in the United States Shaping Tomorrow’s Medical Landscape

The major health organizations across the United States are at the forefront of revolutionizing healthcare delivery, technological integration, and patient access. Their influence extends beyond individual hospitals to entire regions and populations, setting standards for innovation and efficiency. As these systems grow in size and scope, they are not only responding to current healthcare challenges but also actively creating the future of medicine. From embracing digital transformation to fostering health equity, their efforts are transforming every aspect of how healthcare is provided and experienced.

Understanding the scale and strategies of these dominant health networks reveals how they are pioneering advancements that impact millions of Americans. Their initiatives include adopting cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), shifting toward value-based care, and expanding access to underserved communities—each contributing to a more effective, equitable, and sustainable healthcare system.

20 Largest Healthcare Networks in the U.S.

HCA Healthcare – Based in Nashville, TN, HCA operates over 185 hospitals with approximately 47,000 beds, making it the largest hospital operator in the country. Their extensive network spans 19 states and the UK, responsible for about 5% of all hospital services in the U.S., highlighting their substantial reach.

Ascension Health – Headquartered in St. Louis, MO, Ascension runs 146 hospitals with around 34,000 beds. As one of the nation’s largest non-profit health systems, it maintains a significant presence across multiple states, emphasizing community-centered care and innovation.

CommonSpirit Health – Located in Chicago, IL, this health system was formed through the 2019 merger of Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health. It operates 137 hospitals with 30,000 beds across 21 states, exemplifying large-scale collaboration aimed at expanding access to quality care.

Trinity Health – Based in Livonia, MI, Trinity manages 92 hospitals with over 22,200 beds, serving 22 states. Its focus encompasses comprehensive healthcare services rooted in faith-based values, contributing to community well-being nationwide.

Community Health Systems – Headquartered in Franklin, TN, this network owns and operates 84 hospitals with approximately 13,000 beds, primarily serving non-urban and mid-sized markets across the country. Their focus is on accessible, community-oriented hospital care.

Tenet Healthcare – Based in Dallas, TX, Tenet oversees 65 hospitals with 17,000 beds. Its diversified portfolio includes outpatient centers and specialty care facilities, emphasizing innovative service delivery models.

AdventHealth – Located in Altamonte Springs, FL, this faith-based system comprises 50 hospitals across nine states, emphasizing holistic and whole-person care that integrates spiritual and physical health.

Providence St. Joseph Health – With its headquarters in Renton, WA, Providence operates 51 hospitals with 20,000 beds, spanning seven states. Its integrated approach combines clinical excellence with community health initiatives.

May Clinic Health System – Based in Rochester, MN, May Clinic has 19 hospitals, renowned for its clinical practice, education, and research collaborations that serve various communities.

Cleveland Clinic Health System – Located in Cleveland, OH, this nonprofit academic medical center manages 18 hospitals with over 6,000 beds, distinguished for its research, innovation, and specialized care programs.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Headquartered in Washington, DC, the VA operates 170 hospitals and clinics nationwide, providing comprehensive healthcare exclusively for military veterans.

NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System – Based in New York, NY, it encompasses 10 hospitals, delivering extensive healthcare services in the metropolitan area.

Mass General Brigham – Located in Boston, MA, this integrated system includes prominent teaching hospitals, playing a crucial role in medical education and research.

Geisinger Health System – Serving over 3 million residents in Pennsylvania from Danville, PA, Geisinger encompasses 13 hospitals, emphasizing innovative, patient-centered care.

Intermountain Healthcare – Based in Salt Lake City, UT, this not-for-profit organization manages 33 hospitals, a medical group, and health insurance plans across the Intermountain West.

Sutter Health – Headquartered in Sacramento, CA, Sutter operates 24 hospitals with 5,000 beds, serving more than 100 communities with a focus on integrated care.

Baylor Scott & White Health – Located in Dallas, TX, it is the state’s largest not-for-profit system, with a network of hospitals, clinics, and primary care centers.

Mercy Health – Based in Cincinnati, OH, Mercy is Ohio’s largest health system, with numerous hospitals and clinics across Ohio and Kentucky.

UCHealth – Operating in Colorado, southern Wyoming, and western Nebraska, UCHealth manages 12 hospitals and facilities, emphasizing comprehensive regional care.

Indiana University Health – Headquartered in Indianapolis, IN, with 16 hospitals and nearly 2,700 beds, it is the leading healthcare provider in Indiana, linked closely with academic medicine.

Emerging Trends Among Major U.S. Health Systems

These large networks are not just expanding their physical footprint—they are pioneering shifts that impact the entire healthcare industry. As they adapt to evolving patient expectations, policy changes, and technological innovations, three pivotal trends are shaping healthcare’s future.

1. Embracing Technological Innovation: AI, EHR, and Virtual Care

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), electronic health records (EHR), and telehealth solutions is transforming clinical workflows and patient experiences. AI-driven diagnostics enable earlier and more accurate disease detection, while sophisticated EHR platforms facilitate seamless data sharing and care coordination across providers. Telehealth services have seen exponential growth, providing virtual consultations that increase access, reduce wait times, and enhance convenience for patients. These advancements help large health systems improve operational efficiency, lower costs, and deliver better outcomes. For a deeper understanding of how technology enhances clinical processes, explore what AI actually does for doctors and patients in clinical settings.

2. Transitioning to Value-Based Care Models

Moving away from traditional fee-for-service arrangements, many health systems are adopting value-based care models that reward providers based on patient health outcomes. This shift encourages preventative care, chronic disease management, and personalized treatment plans. By focusing on improving overall patient health rather than just increasing service volume, these systems aim to reduce unnecessary procedures, control healthcare costs, and achieve better long-term health results. Such models are becoming central to healthcare reform efforts nationwide, aligning provider incentives with patient well-being.

3. Expanding Access and Promoting Health Equity

Addressing disparities in healthcare access remains a top priority for the largest health systems. Initiatives include deploying mobile health clinics in underserved rural or urban areas, implementing community-based programs to tackle social determinants of health, and enhancing cultural competence among healthcare providers. These efforts aim to ensure that vulnerable populations receive equitable care, reducing health disparities and improving outcomes across diverse communities. For insights into how these initiatives are transforming health equity efforts, visit global health which country actually has the best healthcare system.

The Road Ahead for Healthcare

The influence of the nation’s largest health systems extends far beyond individual hospitals—they are catalysts for industry-wide transformation. By integrating innovative technologies, championing patient-centered care, and prioritizing health equity, these organizations are setting new standards for what modern healthcare can achieve. To succeed in this evolving landscape, strategic collaborations with organizations that specialize in healthcare solutions are essential. These partnerships help health systems optimize their networks, improve efficiency, and deliver superior patient outcomes.

At Brighton Health Plan Solutions, we are dedicated to supporting health systems in navigating these changes. Our expertise in healthcare enablement helps organizations adapt to technological advances and shifting care models, ensuring they remain competitive and patient-focused. To learn more about how we can assist your organization in thriving through healthcare transformation, contact us today.