CLEVELAND, Ohio — In the latest U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 “Best Children’s Hospitals” rankings, Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital and University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital have established themselves as leading facilities for pediatric care, both securing an impressive tie for No. 3 in the Midwest.
Both hospitals were recognized for their exceptional performance in 11 pediatric specialties, including notable fields such as cancer treatment, cardiology, diabetes, and orthopedics. This extensive recognition has earned them high honors not only nationally but also among their peers in the Midwest.
Dr. Tom Mihaljevic, CEO of Cleveland Clinic, expressed pride in the commitment of their pediatric caregivers. “Our Cleveland Clinic Children’s caregivers are committed to providing innovative and compassionate care to our youngest patients, whether it’s a check-up or treatment for a complex condition,” he noted. “Our pediatric experts are at the forefront of transformative research, addressing some of the most complex health challenges facing families today. We are proud of their unwavering dedication.”
Marissa Kiefer, president of UH Rainbow and UH MacDonald Women’s Hospital, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the essential role of their caregivers. “We are proud to be recognized again as one of the country’s leading children’s hospitals,” Kiefer stated. “Families rely on these rankings when making important decisions about their child’s healthcare.”
The annual rankings by U.S. News serve as a critical tool for parents navigating the complexities of healthcare for very ill children. The publication evaluated data from 108 children’s hospitals nationally and utilized surveys from thousands of pediatric specialists to determine the rankings.
Akron Children’s Hospital also secured a notable position, ranking No. 15 overall with recognition in five pediatric specialties. Chris Gessner, CEO of Akron Children’s, reflected on the dedication of his staff, stating, “Our caregivers and staff come to work each day focused on one goal – helping kids heal and return to the activities that bring them joy. This honor from U.S. News & World Report speaks to their remarkable skill, empathy, and commitment to our patients and their families.”
A new category introduced this year was pediatric and adolescent behavioral health, in which Akron Children’s, UH Rainbow Babies, and Cleveland Clinic were listed among the top 50 hospitals nationwide. However, U.S. News indicated that no numbered rankings were assigned in this emerging specialty category.
On a national scale, Columbus’ Nationwide Children’s Hospital received the top rank in the Midwest, also demonstrating excellence in 11 pediatric specialties. The recognition of these hospitals highlights the continuous efforts of healthcare providers to offer outstanding medical services.
The Midwest region encompasses several states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Notably, none of the children’s hospitals in Northeast Ohio ranked number one in any of the 11 pediatric specialties listed by U.S. News.
Ohio’s representation on the U.S. News 2025 Honor Roll saw Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Nationwide Children’s Hospital recognized among the elite, with the honor roll comprising 10 unranked hospitals known for their high achievements across multiple specialties. Inclusion in this prestigious list is based on outstanding performance in various pediatric disciplines, showcasing a commitment to excellence in child healthcare across the state.
Overall, the rankings serve not only as a testament to the quality care provided by these institutions but also as a valuable resource for families making crucial healthcare decisions for their children. The dedication of the caregivers in these hospitals underscores a shared commitment to improving pediatric care in the region and beyond.
