CLARKSTON, WA — TriState Health Chief Executive Officer Kym Clift has been named one of the nation’s Top Critical Access Hospital Presidents to Know by Becker’s Review, according to a news release issued Tuesday.

Becker’s Healthcare highlights hospital executives who demonstrate strong leadership in rural and underserved communities, with a focus on clinical quality, patient safety, and long-term financial stability. The annual recognition underscores the essential role critical access hospitals play in providing around-the-clock emergency and inpatient care in rural areas.

Clift has served as CEO of TriState Health since 2021, overseeing the 25-bed critical access hospital and its multi-site healthcare system serving communities across Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. The system employs approximately 650 people and operates under a 13-member governing board.

According to the release, TriState Health reported an average inpatient census 300% above the state average for critical access hospitals. Under Clift’s leadership, the organization completed construction of a new 60,000-square-foot inpatient wing and raised $9 million in philanthropic support within a 12-month period. The health system also reported a 53% increase in gross revenue and a 400% improvement in total margin, driven by service line growth and operational changes.

Additional initiatives cited include expanded diagnostic capabilities through upgraded CT, MRI, and 3D mammography equipment, workforce development efforts such as a certified nursing assistant program in partnership with a local community college, and a reported 32% reduction in employee turnover.

A Washington native, Clift has more than 25 years of healthcare leadership experience and holds an MBA from Colorado State University. She also serves on multiple healthcare and community boards, including the Washington Healthcare Services Board and the Washington State Hospital Association.