American Hospital Association recognizes Reid for excellence in innovation
Over the past few years, Reid Health has been among the pioneers across the country for new technologies aimed at improving care and the overall patient experience.
The push has put Reid at the forefront of innovation in healthcare, bringing national attention along the way.
Recently, the American Hospital Association (AHA) honored Reid for the work it has done, naming it one of four finalists for the organization’s 2026 Rural Hospital Excellence in Innovation Award.
“I’m proud of the innovative spirit and patient-focused care of our team,” said Ben Wells, Reid Health President/CEO. “Our people are what sets us apart from other health systems.
“It’s always flattering to be recognized for national awards but understanding how these innovations impact our patients’ lives is the true prize.”
The AHA cited Reid for the adoption of smart room technology in all inpatient rooms that includes digital whiteboards, virtual nursing capabilities, and virtual sitting technology. It also pointed toward Reid’s use of AI software Abridge for virtual notetaking, allowing providers to focus entirely on conversations with their patients.
“Reid Health brings innovation directly to rural patients,” the AHA said. “Patient satisfaction improved dramatically with feedback highlighting increased provider attention and technology experiences comparable to urban facilities.”
“For too long, rural communities have had less access to smart technologies that define modern medicine,” said Muhammad Siddiqui, Vice President/Chief Information Officer at Reid Health. “By bringing ambient AI into our clinical spaces, we’re tearing down the digital barriers that once stood between a doctor and a patient.
“As CIO, my goal is to ensure technology never feels like an obstacle but rather a bridge that makes healthcare more personal and ensures our neighbors receive the sophisticated care they deserve, right here at home.”
Reid installed some 250 digital whiteboards in patient rooms at the hospital in mid-2023, giving patients and caregivers alike easy access to information that updates in real time with Reid’s electronic health records system, Epic.
A year later, Reid began using Abridge, software specifically built for healthcare that records conversations between a provider and their patient during a visit and generates real-time notes for the patient's chart. The adoption of Abridge has helped improve patient-provider relationships and has lessened the amount of time providers spent working after hours.
“Our investment in innovation and technology is not about equipment or software — it’s about people. It’s a direct commitment to the patients we’re honored to serve and to the teams we’re privileged to lead. We recognize their time, their presence, and their expertise are deeply valuable,” said Misti Foust-Cofield, Reid’s Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer.
“By thoughtfully embracing tools that reduce burden and enhance connection, we’re creating space for what matters most – compassionate, safe, and meaningful care. Every advancement we pursue is grounded in one purpose – to better support our caregivers and elevate the experience of those who entrust us with their lives.”
About the American Hospital Association
The American Hospital Association (AHA) is a not-for-profit association of healthcare provider organizations and individuals that are committed to the health improvement of their communities. The AHA advocates on behalf of our nearly 5,000 member hospitals, health systems, and other healthcare organizations, our clinician partners – including more than 270,000 affiliated physicians, 2 million nurses and other caregivers – and the 43,000 healthcare leaders who belong to our professional membership groups. Founded in 1898, the AHA provides insight and education for healthcare leaders and is a source of information on healthcare issues and trends. For more information, visit the AHA website at www.aha.org.