Published on December 12, 2025

Avera Hospitals Earn Blue Distinction Recognition

 

Avera logoSeveral Avera facilities have been named as Blue Distinction Centers by the BlueCross BlueShield Association.

The Blue Distinction Center program was developed with input from the medical community and evaluates providers on their ability to deliver high quality and safe specialty care based on criteria that directly impact patient results – for example, specialty expertise and a history of better outcomes for patients.

Blue Distinction Centers+ not only meet the same quality criteria as Blue Distinction Centers, but are also measured on how efficiently they deliver this high-quality patient care.

Hip and Knee:

  • Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center, Marshall, MN (+)
  • Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD
  • Avera Queen of Peace Hospital, Mitchell, SD
  • Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton, SD

Bariatric:

  • Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD (+)

Transplant (adult kidney deceased and living donor):

  • Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD

Centers for Cellular Immunotherapy:

  • Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD

Maternity:

  • Avera Queen of Peace Hospital, Mitchell, SD
  • Avera St. Mary’s Hospital, Pierre, SD (+)

Spine Surgery:

  • Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, Sioux Falls, SD (+)
  • Avera Sacred Heart Hospital, Yankton, SD (+)

 

 

 

Media Contacts.

For media inquiries, please contact the Avera Media Team via phone 605-322-7790 or email Media@Avera.org