ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico Sandoval Regional Medical Center (SRMC) has been named the third most beautiful hospital in the United States, according to a nationwide contest sponsored by Soliant. The “Top 20 Most Beautiful Hospitals in the U.S.” contest recognizes hospitals for their campus development, facilities, staff, and creation of holistic and healing environments.

Over the past month, more than 179,000 votes were cast by the public to determine the top spot among over 70 finalists. SRMC secured third place.

Jamie Silva-Steele, President of SRMC, expressed gratitude towards the community and team members who voted for the hospital. "It’s an honor to celebrate all the reasons our hospital is truly a beautiful place," she said. "Beyond the breath-taking architecture of our facility, the beauty lies in our dedicated health care team, in our patients and in our hospital’s purpose, centered on quality care and the well-being of our staff and providers."

Silva-Steele emphasized that SRMC's mission continues to earn it national recognition. The Level-III Trauma Center has been ranked among the top hospitals for equity and social responsibility by the Lown Institute Hospitals Index. It received high marks for patient outcomes, value of care, community benefit, and pay equity. Additionally, U.S. News & World Report rated SRMC as a high-performing hospital in diabetes care.

“At the end of the day, what makes SRMC beautiful is all the work our teams do every day for our patients,” Silva-Steele added.

The aesthetic appeal of SRMC includes its spectacular views of the Sandia Mountains and design focused on creating a healing environment since its opening in 2012. Every patient room features windows that allow natural light to enter while offering panoramic views of New Mexico's landscape through nearly floor-to-ceiling windows throughout many parts of the hospital.

A grand piano donated by State Farm Insurance Company and Board member Joanna Boothe sits in SRMC's first-floor waiting area as part of its Arts-in-Medicine program. Local artists regularly perform there to help decrease stress levels and promote healing through music.

Additionally, stunning pieces created by Native American artists from New Mexico’s pueblos and tribes adorn SRMC's walls alongside works from young upcoming artists.

SRMC also prides itself on its close-knit family of healthcare workers who provide exceptional care daily. Silva-Steele highlighted stories such as an SRMC leader saving a man's life at a gym or an employee giving back after her son received lifesaving care as examples demonstrating their dedication beyond work hours.

“These are the generous hearts that make up this incredible hospital,” Silva-Steele concluded. “Our patients are in very best hands.”