Six hospitals in San Diego County have been recognized for their outstanding performance in treating substance use disorders. The accolade comes from Cal Hospital Compare, a nonprofit organization that evaluates medical centers across California. The announcement was made this week, highlighting facilities that have excelled in substance use treatment, now encompassing a wider range of substances beyond just opioids.
To be included in the honor roll, hospitals need to demonstrate a sustained commitment to high-quality care over two consecutive years. This recognition signifies that these facilities have integrated essential substance use practices into their daily operations. According to the self-assessment guide provided by Cal Hospital Compare, the highest level of care includes medication-assisted treatment, which combines medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone with behavioral therapies.
Hospitals on the honor roll must also provide evidence of comprehensive training for medical staff, family outreach programs, follow-up care after discharge, and harm-reduction strategies that are critical in the treatment of substance use disorders.
Recognized Facilities in San Diego County
The hospitals in San Diego County that have received this prestigious honor are: Scripps hospitals located in La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Encinitas, and San Diego; Sharp Grossmont Hospital in La Mesa; and Tri-City Medical Center in Oceanside. In total, 133 hospitals across California participated in the substance use disorder program.
The program assesses facilities based on their performance, categorizing the highest achievers in the “superior performance” category, which requires a score in the 75th percentile or higher. Hospitals achieving this level of excellence for two consecutive years are placed on the honor roll. Additionally, facilities that reached this mark in 2025 are also acknowledged.
Seventeen hospitals statewide were identified for their superior performance in substance use treatment during 2025. Notable mentions include Palomar Health’s facilities in Escondido and Poway, Scripps Mercy Hospital in Chula Vista, Sharp Coronado Hospital, and Sharp Memorial Hospital in Serra Mesa.
The recognition of these hospitals reflects a growing commitment across California to improve the quality of care for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. By adhering to rigorous standards and implementing comprehensive treatment strategies, these facilities are setting a benchmark for excellence in healthcare.