Birmingham VA hospital drops to 4 stars in latest CMS quality rating
No Alabama hospital scored more than that.
Ethan Parker 
The Birmingham Veterans Affair Health Care system has earned a 4-star rating in the latest hospital quality assessments released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in May. You can view the full methodology in the CMS report slides.
Staying Among the Best in Alabama
While the system secured a maximum five-star rating in 2025—climbing two spots from its three-star performance the year prior—this year’s 4-star result keeps the system in the top tier of medical facilities in the state. According to data found on the CMS website, no hospital in Alabama achieved a rating higher than four stars this year.
In a statement provided to 205focus.com, Birmingham VA representatives noted that the facility remains in the highest-rated group of hospitals across Alabama. “Notably, 4 stars is considered to be above average,” the statement read. The organization also highlighted that CMS ratings are subject to change based on evolving national comparisons and shifting measurement criteria.
Commitment to Veteran Care
Despite the slight adjustment in its rating, leadership at the Birmingham VA remains focused on its primary mission. “While we are always working to improve access and patient experience, VA Birmingham is proud of the exceptional care our dedicated teams provide to Veterans throughout Alabama and we remain focused on providing safe, Veteran-centric care to Veterans,” the statement said.
The center currently operates a network of clinics spanning Bessemer, Birmingham, Childersburg, Florence, Guntersville, Huntsville, Jasper, Rainbow City, and Oxford.
National Trends in Quality
Nationwide, the quality of VA healthcare continues to climb. According to reports from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the percentage of VA hospitals reaching 4- or 5-star status has trended upward, reaching 78% in 2026 compared to 77% in 2025 and 58% in 2024.
The Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings are determined by five key metrics: mortality, safety of care, readmission, patient experience, and timely and effective care.
