What’s Happening: MyMichigan Medical Center Alma has been named a 2025 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care by U.S. News & World Report. This designation is the highest award a hospital can earn as part of the U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care annual study.
How is the Designation Determined: U.S. News evaluated 817 hospitals from across the United States of which only half of the evaluated hospitals for the 2025 ratings edition have been recognized as Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. The determination methodology is based entirely on objective measures of quality—such as C-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.
What They’re Saying: “This recognition serves as a testament to the dedication and compassion of our health care team, who strive every day to provide the highest standard of safe and excellent care to mothers and their newborns,” says Marita Hattem-Schiffman, F.A.C.H.E, C.P.M.S.M., president, MyMichigan Medical Centers in Alma, Clare, Mt. Pleasant. “We are truly honored to be recognized for our commitment to nurturing the start of new life and supporting families during such a crucial time. Our promise is to continue providing exceptional and compassionate maternity care.”
What’s Available at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma’s Maternity Center: The state-of-the-art and family-centered Maternity Center features three triage rooms and nine private birthing suites where moms can stay in one location throughout their hospital stay. These suites provide accommodations for the baby and support partner to stay with the mom, along with additional space for clinical staff. Plus, the Maternity Center has an operating room for cesarean sections, a nursery for when babies need monitoring or special procedures, a security system, and in-room refrigerators.
“Our Maternity Center provides a beautiful and calm, home-like environment where our patients receive individualized and supportive care,” adds Hattem-Schiffman. “When patients walk in the door, they will receive a warm and friendly welcome from our staff. Our team will make them feel right at home and explain what will happen during their birthing process, ensuring they have an excellent experience.”
Who Else Was Awarded: In addition to Alma, MyMichigan Medical Center in Alpena received the 2025 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care honor and was recognized as a “Maternity Care Access Hospital” by the U.S. News & World Report. MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch also received the “Maternity Care Access Hospital” distinction.
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