U.S. News & World Report badge alongside picture of a mother and baby

Hospitals earned a High Performing designation in recognition of maternity care

Loma Linda University's Children's Hospital and Medical Center-Murrieta have been recognized as Best Hospitals for Maternity Care by U.S. News & World Report for 2026. This is the highest award a hospital can earn as part of U.S. News' Best Hospitals for Maternity Care annual study.

"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 Jonathan Jean-Marie, MHA, FACHE, senior vice president and administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center-Murrieta. "This achievement is truly a testament to the dedication, expertise, and commitment of our exceptional care teams and inspires us to continue offering the best possible care to every family we serve." 

"Loma Linda University Children's Hospital is often recognized for its expertise in high-risk pregnancy care and for maintaining a Level 4 NICU. However, this accolade highlights our equal dedication to excellence in low-risk scenarios," said Peter Baker, JD, MBA, senior vice president and administrator of Children's Hospital.

“This recognition for our excellent care for low-risk maternity cases is a great honor and emphasizes our commitment to providing safe, compassionate, and comprehensive care to all our patients.”

U.S News evaluated maternity care hospitals, rating hospitals that provide labor and delivery services, and submitted detailed data to the publication for analysis. For 2026, approximately 900 hospitals across the nation submitted maternity data for evaluation.

Recognition of maternity care was measured by objective factors such as C-section rates in lower-risk pregnancies, severe unexpected newborn complication rates, exclusive breast milk feeding rates, and birthing-friendly practices, among other measures.

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