Caucasian woman with brown hair receives a prenatal ultrasound from a doctor of Asian decent

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta and have been recognized as part of the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 High Performing Hospital for Maternity Care. This distinction is based on their national performance in various rankings, including low newborn complications, fewer early deliveries, and reduced C-section rates.

“Our reputation is largely built on providing high-risk pregnancy care and maintaining a Level 4 maternity status, but being acknowledged for our excellent care in low-risk maternity cases is equally important and a great honor," said Courtney Martin, DO, medical director of quality improvement at the Children’s Hospital.

"Being among the top hospitals nationally in maternity care highlights our continuous effort to prioritize safe, compassionate, and comprehensive care for all our patients,” said Jennifer Ross Clarke, MSN, director of perinatal services at LLUMC–Murrieta. This recognition milestone inspires us to continue offering the best possible care to every family we serve."

U.S. News evaluated hospitals from across the nation that provide labor and delivery services and submitted detailed data to the publication for analysis. An all-time-high 680 hospitals participated in this year’s U.S. News survey. Fewer than half – 46% – of all hospitals that offer maternity care and participated in the survey received a High Performing designation. 

Hospitals that receive a High Performing designation as part of Best Hospitals for Maternity Care meet a high standard in caring for parents with uncomplicated pregnancies. These hospitals have C-section rates that are 26% lower, and newborn complication rates that are 37% lower than unrecognized hospitals.

The U.S. News Best Hospitals for Maternity Care methodology is based on objective measures of quality, such as C-section rates in lower-risk pregnancies, newborn complication rates, exclusive breast milk feeding rates, early elective delivery rates, birthing-friendly practices and transparency on racial/ethnic disparities, among other measures.

Visit us online for more information on maternity care services at Children’s Hospital or LLUMC-Murrieta.