Tampa General Hospital Earns Top Ranking for Maternity Care
The region's only university-affiliated academic health system continues to deliver outstanding maternity, childbirth, and postpartum care, as recently highlighted in a report.
Acknowledgement by U.S. News & World Report
Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has been recognized in the 2025 Best Hospitals for Maternity Care rankings, which is reported by U.S. News & World Report, a leading authority in hospital evaluations. This commendation marks a significant achievement for TGH, as it occurs for the second consecutive year, solidifying its status as a high-performing hospital in maternity care—a prestigious accolade granted by U.S. News in this specialty.
Out of the numerous hospitals assessed for the 2025 rankings, only a select few met the standards for Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. Notably, Tampa General stands alone as the only health system in its regional market to receive such an honor.
Commitment to Health and Well-being
John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General, asserted the importance of providing a healthy beginning for newborns, emphasizing that it enhances their long-term health. This recognition is a testament to TGH's commitment to delivering compassionate and world-class maternity care for expectant mothers and their babies.
Importance of Recognition
This accolade serves as a vital resource for expectant families, as the evaluation by U.S. News gives them essential information needed to select maternity care that aligns with their expectations and those of their healthcare teams.
Advancements in Maternal Care
Dr. Judette Louis, chief of the TGH Women's Institute, highlighted that the health care team's dedication contributes to the best possible outcomes for mothers and infants. Their approach caters to all types of pregnancies, ensuring that both routine and high-risk cases receive the attention they deserve. The ranking reflects their effectiveness in maintaining high standards that lead to better health results.
The Ranking Methodology
The Best Hospitals for Maternity Care rankings are determined by evaluating eight key quality metrics, including:
- The NTSV (Nulliparous, Term, Singleton, Vertex) C-section rate, assessing full-term births to first-time mothers
- Unexpected newborn complication rate
- Episiotomy rate
- Rate of exclusive human milk feeding
- VBAC (Vaginal Birth After C-section) rate
- Transparency regarding racial/ethnic disparities
- Early elective delivery rate
- Birthing-friendly practices
Hospitals that achieve a score of 70 or better in these criteria earn the designation of "High Performing." The focus lies primarily on uncomplicated pregnancies, reflecting the commitment to quality above all.
Previous National Recognition
Prior to this recent honor, the TGH Women's Institute accrued national recognition for its maternity services. In 2024, it secured a spot on Newsweek's list of America's Best Maternity Hospitals for the fourth year in a row, underscoring the hospital's unwavering commitment to excellent maternal care.
Achievements and Awards
In 2023, Tampa General was honored as the only Baby-Friendly® designated birth facility in its county, a rigorous distinction based on adherence to the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. Furthermore, in 2022, TGH received awards for exceeding national goals in reducing unnecessary cesarean deliveries for first-time mothers, standing out as a leader in maternal care.
Future of Maternity Care at TGH
The TGH Women's Institute remains committed to providing a full spectrum of maternity services, from basic to complex care solutions. Melissa Golombek, vice president of the institute, emphasized the focus on safe childbirth practices and quality care, which together enhance outcomes for both mothers and their infants.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What recognition has Tampa General Hospital received?
Tampa General Hospital has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a high-performing hospital for maternity care for two consecutive years.
2. What criteria are used for the maternity care rankings?
The rankings rely on quality indicators such as C-section rates, unexpected complications, and feeding practices to assess hospitals.
3. Is Tampa General a Baby-Friendly designated hospital?
Yes, Tampa General Hospital is the only Baby-Friendly® designated birth facility in its county.
4. How does this recognition benefit expectant parents?
The recognition provides expectant parents with crucial information to choose the best maternity care options for their families.
5. What future plans does Tampa General have for maternity care?
Tampa General Hospital continues to enhance its maternity services, focusing on safe practices and comprehensive care for all mothers and babies.
