UNC Health Nash Receives High Performing Designations in Maternity Care
The UNC Health Nash Women’s Center has been recognized as one of five UNC Health hospitals across North Carolina for providing top maternity care by U.S. News & World Report. "High Performing" for maternity care is the highest award a hospital can earn as part of U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care annual study.
This designation demonstrates UNC Health Nash’s ability to meet rigorous standards set by U.S. News & World Report for maternity care, which evaluates key metrics such as rates of severe newborn complications, evidence-based birthing practices, and exclusive breast milk feeding, among other criteria.
In addition, UNC Health Nash earned the “Maternity Care Access” designation from U.S. News. That distinction recognizes quality labor and delivery care provided to regions that, if not for the award-winning hospital, would be maternity deserts.
“I am incredibly proud of the outstanding work done by the Nash Women’s Center team, whose dedication to excellence has earned UNC Health Nash recognition as a leader in maternity care,” said Dr. Mary Strickland, Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Vice President at UNC Health Nash. “As a growing regional hospital, these honors highlight the critical role our team plays in delivering exceptional care, ensuring families have access to high-quality services close to home. These recognitions are a testament to the commitment, expertise, and compassion of our team members who work tirelessly to provide mothers and babies with the best start possible. They reaffirm the trust our patients and families place in us as we continue to expand and elevate our care.”
According to Charity Stewart, Clinical Director of the Nash Women’s Center, maternity care at UNC Nash has a long-standing legacy of excellence, marked by achievements such as its prestigious “Baby-Friendly” designation and “North Carolina Maternity Center Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation,” both recognizing its commitment to the highest standards of infant feeding care. Stewart says by building on this foundation, the center continues to advance maternity services and meet the needs of its growing community.
“It is truly an honor to see our Women’s Center recognized by U.S. News & World Report, reflecting our deep commitment to supporting families during such a pivotal time in their lives,” said Stewart. “Bringing a new life into the world is a profound experience, and our goal is to provide not only exceptional care, but also the resources and reassurance families need. Through enhanced lactation support, outpatient services, and expanded perinatal classes, we strive to equip mothers and families with the confidence and tools needed for this journey. We are also committed to ensuring every family feels valued and prepared for the road ahead.”
