Holmes Regional Medical Center has been named the top hospital in Brevard County for the second year in a row, according to Health First. The hospital also ranked No. 31 in Florida in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Hospitals list. The recognition covers eight specialties, including leukemia care and heart bypass surgery. The rankings are based on data from 2023 and 2024, according to the report.
Health First’s press release highlighted Holmes Regional’s performance in eight areas: leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma treatment; gynecological cancer surgery; heart arrhythmia care; aortic valve surgery; heart bypass surgery; diabetes management; kidney failure treatment; and hip replacement. Viera Hospital, part of the same system, was recognized for hip replacement, while Palm Bay Hospital earned recognition for pacemaker implantation and knee replacement.
Terry Forde, Health First’s president and CEO, said the rankings reflect the work of staff and volunteers. 'These accolades are especially meaningful to our physicians, nurses, associates, and volunteers,' Forde said. 'We are honored to share these results with those who entrust Health First with their care.'
Ben Harder, U.S. News’ managing editor and chief of health analysis, said the rankings show a hospital’s commitment to quality care. 'A Best Hospitals recognition reflects consistent top-tier medical care to its community,' Harder said. The rankings use objective measures like risk-adjusted mortality rates and preventable complications.
The Health First system includes Holmes Regional, Viera, and Palm Bay hospitals. The latest rankings follow a similar recognition in 2025. The data used for the rankings comes from hospital discharge records, patient surveys, and administrative claims.