In the ever-evolving landscape of U.S. healthcare, the largest health systems in the U.S. play a pivotal role in driving change. These organizations, with their vast networks of hospitals, clinics, and specialized care facilities, are not just responding to the demands of today’s healthcare challenges—they’re actively shaping the future. From advancing technological innovation to improving access and efficiency, their influence is felt across every facet of the industry.
Yet, the challenges they face are as significant as their impact. Rising costs, shifting care models, and the need for seamless coordination demand innovative solutions and strategic partnerships. That’s where organizations like Brighton Health Plan Solutions step in, offering tailored approaches to help these health systems meet their goals while enhancing the member experience.
But which health systems have the greatest reach and influence? Below, we break down the 20 largest health systems in the U.S., ranked by the number of hospitals and beds, and explore how they are shaping the future of healthcare.
Why Trust Us
We surveyed 100 users from 55 online therapy companies and 27 therapist directories to understand their experiences with these services. Then, we tested the services ourselves across multiple states, conducted comprehensive data collection research, and evaluated our results with the help of a licensed therapist.
20 Largest Health Systems in the U.S.
HCA Healthcare
- Headquarters: Nashville, TN
- Number of Hospitals: 185
- Number of Beds: 47,000
- Key Highlights: Operates over 2,000 care sites across 19 states and the UK; approximately 5% of all U.S. hospital services are delivered at an HCA facility.
Ascension Health
- Headquarters: St. Louis, MO
- Number of Hospitals: 146
- Number of Beds: 34,000
- Key Highlights: One of the largest non-profit health systems in the U.S., with a significant presence across multiple states.
CommonSpirit Health
- Headquarters: Chicago, IL
- Number of Hospitals: 137
- Number of Beds: 30,000
- Key Highlights: Formed in 2019 through the merger of Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health; operates in 21 states.
Trinity Health
- Headquarters: Livonia, MI
- Number of Hospitals: 92
- Number of Beds: 22,200
- Key Highlights: A national Catholic health system operating in 22 states, offering a range of healthcare services.
Community Health Systems
- Headquarters: Franklin, TN
- Number of Hospitals: 84
- Number of Beds: 13,000
- Key Highlights: Operates general acute care hospitals in non-urban and mid-size markets throughout the U.S.
Tenet Healthcare
- Headquarters: Dallas. TX
- Number of Hospitals: 65
- Number of Beds: 17,000
- Key Highlights: A diversified healthcare services company operating hospitals and outpatient centers across the U.S.
AdventHealth
- Headquarters: Altamonte Springs, FL
- Number of Hospitals: 50
- Key Highlights: A faith-based health system with facilities across nine states, focusing on whole-person care.
Providence St. Joseph Health
- Headquarters: Renton, WA
- Number of Hospitals: 51
- Number of Beds: 20,000
- Key Highlights: Formed through the merger of Providence Health & Services and St. Joseph Health, currently operates in seven states.
May Clinic Health System
- Headquarters: Rochester, MN
- Number of Hospitals: 19
- Key Highlights: Integrated clinical practice, education, and research network serving communities across several states.
Cleveland Clinic Health System
- Headquarters: Cleveland, OH
- Number of Hospitals: 18
- Number of Beds: 6,026
- Key Highlights: A nonprofit multi-specialty academic medical center that integrates clinical and hospital care with research and education.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- Headquarters: Washington, DC
- Number of Hospitals: 170
- Number of Beds: N/A
- Key Highlights: Provides comprehensive healthcare services to eligible military veterans at VA medical centers and outpatient clinics.
NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System
- Headquarters: New York, NY
- Number of Hospitals: 10
- Number of Beds: N/A
- Key Highlights: A comprehensive healthcare delivery network in the New York metropolitan area.
Mass General Brigham
- Headquarters: Boston, MA
- Number of Hospitals: 14
- Number of Beds: N/A
- Key Highlights: An integrated healthcare system that includes internationally known teaching hospitals.
Geisinger Health System
- Headquarters: Danville, PA
- Number of Hospitals: 13
- Number of Beds: N/a
- Key Highlights: Serves more than 3 million residents throughout central, south-central, and northeastern Pennsylvania.
Intermountain Healthcare
- Headquarters: Salt Lake City, UT
- Number of Hospitals: 33
- Number of Beds: N/A
- Key Highlights: A not-for-profit system of hospitals, a medical group, and health insurance plans in the Intermountain West.
Sutter Health
- Headquarters: Sacramento, CA
- Number of Hospitals: 24
- Number of Beds: 5,000
- Key Highlights: A not-for-profit integrated health delivery system serving more than 100 communities in Northern California.
Baylor Scott & White Health
- Headquarters: Dallas, TX
- Number of Hospitals: 52
- Number of Beds: N/A
- Key Highlights: The largest not-for-profit healthcare system in Texas, with a network of hospitals, primary care centers, and clinics.
Mercy Health
- Headquarters: Cincinnati, OH
- Number of Hospitals: 43
- Number of Beds: N/A
- Key Highlights: The largest health system in Ohio and among the top five employers in the state, with hospitals and clinics across Ohio and Kentucky.
UCHealth
- Headquarters: Aurora, CO
- Number of Hospitals: 12
- Number of Beds: N/A
- Key Highlights: A nonprofit health care system that includes hospitals and facilities throughout Colorado, southern Wyoming, and western Nebraska.
Indiana University Health
- Headquarters: Indianapolis, IN
- Number of Hospitals: 16
- Number of Beds: 2,696
- Key Highlights: The largest and most comprehensive healthcare system in Indiana, with a partnership with the Indiana University School of Medicine.
Emerging Trends Among the Largest Health Systems in the U.S.
The largest health systems in the U.S. are not just expanding their reach—they are also driving industry-wide transformation. As they adapt to shifting patient needs, regulatory changes, and advancements in medical technology, three key trends are shaping the future of healthcare.
1. Investment in Technology: AI, EHR, and Telehealth
Health systems are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI), electronic health records (EHRs), and telehealth solutions to enhance patient care and streamline operations. AI-powered diagnostics are improving early disease detection, while advanced EHR systems enable seamless data sharing and care coordination. Meanwhile, telehealth services have expanded access to virtual care, reducing wait times and increasing convenience for patients.
These technologies help large health systems enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve patient outcomes, making digital innovation a core focus for the future.
2. The Shift Toward Value-Based Care
The traditional fee-for-service model is gradually being replaced by value-based care, where providers are rewarded based on patient outcomes rather than service volume. Large health systems are leading this shift by focusing on preventative care, chronic disease management, and outcome-driven treatment plans.
By prioritizing patient health over hospital visits, these systems are reducing unnecessary procedures and controlling healthcare costs, ultimately leading to better long-term outcomes for both patients and providers.
3. Expansion of Access & Equity Initiatives
Equitable healthcare access remains a critical focus, particularly for underserved populations. The largest health systems are investing in:
- Community health programs to address disparities in care.
- Mobile health clinics to reach rural and low-income areas.
- Language and cultural competency initiatives to ensure inclusive healthcare experiences.
By broadening their reach and tailoring care models to diverse populations, health systems are making significant strides in reducing healthcare inequities and improving outcomes for all.
What This Means for the Future of Healthcare
The largest health systems in the U.S. play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare. Their vast networks and cutting-edge initiatives are driving innovation, improving patient care, and expanding access to underserved communities. Through technology adoption, value-based care models, and equity-focused initiatives, these systems are setting the standard for what modern healthcare should look like.
Yet, navigating these complexities requires the right partnerships and expertise. As health systems evolve, collaborating with organizations that specialize in healthcare solutions can help them optimize networks, improve efficiency, and enhance patient outcomes.
Transforming the Health Plan Experience
At Brighton Health Plan Solutions, we’re committed to supporting health systems as they tackle today’s challenges and prepare for the future. To learn how we can help your organization thrive in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.
