University Of Colorado Hospital Authority vs Mercyone Dubuque Medical Center
Side-by-side hospital cost and quality comparison from CMS Medicare data
This comparison crosses state lines: University Of Colorado Hospital Authority (Colorado) versus Mercyone Dubuque Medical Center (Iowa). Cost differences are influenced by the federal wage-index adjustment in addition to hospital-specific cost structure. The cost gap is moderate: $8,598 vs $11,438, about 25% apart. Enough to matter for high-volume procedures but not so wide that it dominates the choice. University Of Colorado Hospital Authority edges ahead on the value rubric.
The cost difference is enough to factor into elective scheduling for any procedure that both hospitals offer. For emergency or specialized care, the choice is often dictated by other factors.
Verdict
University Of Colorado Hospital Authority earns a higher Value Score of 96/100 (A) compared to Mercyone Dubuque Medical Center at 87/100 (A). Average Medicare payment differs by $2,840 ($8,598 vs $11,438). University Of Colorado Hospital Authority holds a 5-star CMS rating.
| Metric | University Of Colorado Hospital Authority | Mercyone Dubuque Medical Center |
|---|---|---|
| Value Score Composite of price, quality, and outcomes | 96/100 (A)* | 87/100 (A) |
| CMS Quality Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Avg Payment Average Medicare payment across all procedures | $8,598* | $11,438 |
| Outcome Score | 84/100* | 66/100 |
| Emergency Services | Yes | Yes |
| Hospital Type | Acute Care Hospitals | Acute Care Hospitals |
| Ownership | Government - Hospital District or Authority | Voluntary non-profit - Church |
| Location | Aurora, CO | Dubuque, IA |
| Procedures Tracked | 10 | 11 |
University Of Colorado Hospital Authority earns a higher Value Score of 96/100 (A) compared to Mercyone Dubuque Medical Center at 87/100 (A). Average Medicare payment differs by $2,840 ($8,598 vs $11,438). University Of Colorado Hospital Authority holds a 5-star CMS rating.
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Source: CMS Hospital Price Transparency, 2026.