Florida is home to 13 hospitals recognized among the nation’s best for maternity care in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 rankings, with five singled out as essential providers in communities at risk of becoming “maternity care deserts.”
The goal of the rankings, in their fifth year, is to help expectant parents make informed decisions in consultation with their prenatal care providers, according to U.S. News.
The report distinguishes between two types of recognition. “Best Hospitals for Maternity Care” for uncomplicated pregnancy were evaluated based on objective metrics such as C-section rates, severe unexpected newborn complications and breastfeeding support. “Maternity Care Access Hospitals” were the only facilities providing maternity services in their community and are essential to maintaining local access for expectant parents…