Rankings Methodology
Last updated Oct 14, 2026
Every xhealthnetwork ranking is published with its methodology on the same page, above the table. Not behind a link.
A ranking is our editorial opinion, built on a stated method and cited data. This page explains what every methodology contains and how we handle disagreement. The methodology for a specific ranking is on that ranking's own page.
What every ranking page states
- What it ranks — in one sentence.
- What it does not rank — said plainly. For example, a ranking by size does not measure quality of care, patient safety, clinical outcomes or patient satisfaction. A high position means an organization is large, not that it is good.
- Who is included — the universe considered, how it was defined, and any exclusions and why.
- Data sources — every source named, with links where public and the date each was retrieved. Anything self-reported is marked as self-reported.
- Time period — the period measured and the date the data was pulled.
- How we calculated it — the actual method. Weights, if any, are stated as numbers. Where a judgement was applied, we say where.
- Limitations — what the data cannot show, where it is incomplete, and where definitions differ between sources.
- Changes since the last edition — if positions moved because the method changed rather than the organizations, we say so.
- Right of reply — when organizations were contacted, the deadline they were given to correct the underlying data, and how many responded.
- Corrections — how to tell us a figure is wrong.
The standing disclaimer
This appears at the foot of every ranking:
If you believe the data about your organization is wrong
Write to [email protected] with the correct figure and its source. We verify it, and if it is right we fix it, recalculate the affected positions and publish a note saying what moved (Corrections Policy C7).
- A data error is a correction.
- A methodology disagreement is not an error. We will consider publishing a substantive objection, but we do not change a position because someone dislikes how we measured.
- We respond to every objection within 3 business days, even where the answer is no.
- Legal correspondence goes to [email protected] and is answered.
Using an xhealthnetwork ranking
Do not describe a ranking as an award, certification or accreditation. Accurate attribution is welcome; implying endorsement is not. See the Terms of Service §8.