The UNC Medical Center was one of five UNC Health hospitals across North Carolina recognized for providing top maternity care by U.S. News & World Report. This is the fourth consecutive year that UNC has been ranked among this list, which began in 2021, rating hospitals that provide labor and delivery services and submit detailed data to the publication for analysis.
Hospitals ranked by U.S. News for maternity care statistically provide better outcomes, including lower C-section rates, fewer newborn complications, and higher breastfeeding rates. According to the site:
“Hospitals rated “Best” for Maternity Care by U.S. News:
- Are 47% more likely to be designated as “Baby-Friendly” by Baby Friendly USA, indicating a hospital has taken important steps to support breastfeeding.
- Have C-section rates 22% lower compared with maternity care hospitals not recognized by U.S. News.
- Have severe unexpected newborn complication rates 44% lower compared with maternity care hospitals not recognized by U.S. News.
- Have episiotomy rates 33% lower compared with maternity care hospitals not recognized by U.S. News.
- Have breast milk feeding rates 12% higher compared with maternity care hospitals not recognized by U.S. News.
- Are 13% more likely to report race/ethnicity data for both C-section and severe unexpected newborn complications compared with maternity care hospitals not recognized by U.S. News.“
To view the full list, visit “U.S. News & World Report Announces the 2025 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care.”