BSA Health System stands as a cornerstone of healthcare excellence in the Texas Panhandle region, serving as the fourth largest employer in Amarillo with a distinguished medical staff of over 450 physicians and approximately 3,000 employees. The health system operates under a mission to provide quality healthcare in Christian love, service and dignity, demonstrating this commitment through comprehensive clinical services and numerous accolades.
Founded in 1901 as St. Anthony's Hospital by four Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word, BSA's legacy of excellence spans over a century. The system achieved its current form in 1996 through the strategic merger of St. Anthony's Hospital and High Plains Baptist Hospital, combining their strengths to create a more robust healthcare organization. In 2013, BSA became an affiliate of Ardent Health Services, joining a network of over 20 hospitals and physician groups nationwide.
BSA's commitment to excellence is evidenced by numerous prestigious accreditations and recognitions. The facility maintains a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for patient experience, placing it among only 84 hospitals in Texas to achieve this distinction. The health system has earned the Blue Distinction Center+ designation for cardiac, maternity, and bariatric care, demonstrating superior patient outcomes and safety standards. Additionally, BSA is certified as a Primary Plus Stroke Center by DNV GL and is an accredited Chest Pain Center by the American College of Cardiology.
The system's cancer care services, through BSA Harrington Cancer Center, hold multiple accreditations including QOPI® Certification and Commission on Cancer accreditation, ensuring the highest standards in oncology care. The facility's breast center is recognized as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology and is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers.
BSA's technological advancement is exemplified by its achievement of CHIME Digital Health Most Wired recognition as a certified level 8 out of 10, demonstrating its commitment to implementing cutting-edge healthcare technology. The system consistently receives recognition through local awards, including multiple Best of Amarillo categories and NewsChannel 10 Viewers Choice Awards for Best Hospital and Emergency Room.
Most recently, in March 2024, BSA's leadership excellence was recognized when CEO Michael Cruz received the CEO of the Year award and CNO Katrina Tokar was named CNO of the Year by Ardent Health Services. The system also earned an A grade from Leapfrog for patient safety, underscoring its commitment to quality care.
BSA Health System operates with a progressive vision focused on three core pillars: providing exceptional patient care, maintaining a positive work environment, and ensuring financial strength to support continued growth and excellence. The system's comprehensive service lines, state-of-the-art facilities, and continued investment in healthcare innovation position it as a leading healthcare provider in the Texas Panhandle and tri-state area.