A message from the CEO |

HealthFocus Winter 2026 Index

As we begin a new year at TidalHealth, I am proud of the momentum our team has built across Delmarva. In the pages that follow, you will see a clear theme: we are expanding access, elevating quality and investing in the people, programs and spaces that will define the future of care in our region.

Our cover story, “The making of an academic health system,” highlights an exciting milestone in that journey. TidalHealth’s transformation into a teaching health system is more than a title change. It means more physicians training at the bedside, more opportunities for clinical research and stronger partnerships. Most importantly, it means patients benefit from a learning environment where evidence, innovation and teamwork come together every day. Our growing Graduate Medical Education programs are already paying off, with many physicians choosing to build their careers right here at home.

This issue also celebrates the measurable results of our focus on safety and excellence. You will read about national recognitions including CMS 5-star performance at TidalHealth Nanticoke, Healthgrades distinctions, and Leapfrog “A” ratings earned at two of our hospitals, with ongoing work across our system to advance safety and quality. Together, these achievements and the progress underway reflect the commitment of our team members and medical staff to deliver the right care, at the right time, in the right setting.

You will also see how we are transforming access through new technologies and expanded services, from aquablation and robotic bronchoscopy to expanded GI access, geriatrics, women’s health, pediatric neurology and mobile mammography that brings screening closer to where people live and work. Our continued Epic integration supports a more connected experience for patients and care teams.

Finally, we are growing to meet community needs through new clinics, groundbreakings and facility expansions, and through philanthropic support that fuels progress across our system. I hope you will also take pride in workforce milestones, including Atlantic General Hospital’s CNA training program, and the many graduates now serving patients throughout our organization.

Thank you for trusting TidalHealth. We are grateful to serve you, and we are ready for all we will accomplish together in the year ahead.