LANSING, Mich. – University of Michigan Health-Sparrow has been named one of the best hospitals in the United States for maternity care, earning a four-ribbon designation on Newsweek’s “America’s Best Maternity Hospitals 2026.”

UM Health-Sparrow is among only 12 Michigan institutions recognized nationally for delivering high-quality maternity care amid growing challenges in maternal health access. The list, published by Newsweek in partnership with Statista, a data firm, honors 460 hospitals nationwide that demonstrate strong clinical outcomes, supportive patient experiences and innovative approaches to advancing maternal and newborn health.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our maternity team to every parent and child we serve,” said Tonyie Andrews-Johnson, Director of Women’s & Pediatric Services at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Lansing. “We are proud to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that helps families feel supported before, during and after birth.”

UM Health-Sparrow Lansing is the pre-eminent birthing center in Mid-Michigan, with 3,300 births annually. C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital at UM Health-Sparrow is also home to the area’s only regional neonatal intensive care unit.

Newsweek noted that more than 35% of U.S. counties are now classified as “maternity care deserts,” leaving over 5.5 million women with limited or no local obstetric services. The ranking considered hospital quality metrics from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Leapfrog Hospital Survey and The Joint Commission, along with patient experience data and a nationwide survey of medical professionals.

“Choosing where to give birth is one of the most important health care decisions a family can make,” Andrews-Johnson said. “Being recognized among the best in the nation shows that families in Mid-Michigan can access exceptional maternity care close to home.”

To learn more, visit UofMHealthSparrow.org/departments-conditions/all-departments/labor-delivery.