Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report in its annual list of best hospitals for maternity care. The list classifies the hospital as “high performing," the highest level of achievement possible. 

“This award is a significant achievement, and we will continue to prioritize high quality, equitable care, supporting every mother who walks through our doors," said Kellie Pearson, director of Women's and Children's Services at Atrium Health Floyd. “It reflects our commitment to best practices and evidence-based protocols to ensure we provide save care for our patients."

Floyd Medical Center, which has delivered more than 2,040 babies this year, is one of 24 Advocate Health hospitals named to the list. Six Atrium Health hospitals in North Carolina that made the list are also part of Charlotte-based Advocate Health. 

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

"This recognition underscores our unwavering dedication to providing exceptional maternity care," said Dr. Scott Rissmiller, executive vice president and chief physician executive for Advocate Health. "Our commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care ensures that families receive the highest quality of care during one of the most important times in their lives." 

Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center was also designated as a “Maternity Care Access Hospital," recognizing hospitals that provide quality care to expectant parents in areas that would otherwise be maternity care deserts.

Earlier this year, Advocate Health was recognized by U.S. News & World Report with eight “Top 50" rankings and 32 “High Performing" specialties at its hospitals.