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2 MN Children's Hospitals Among Nation's Best: U.S. News Rankings

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, October 7th 2025 at 16:22 GMT by Patch
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Two Minnesota Children’s Hospitals Rank Among the Nation’s Best, According to U.S. News & World Report

A recent U.S. News & World Report ranking has placed two Minnesota children’s hospitals in the upper echelons of the nation’s best pediatric care providers, underscoring the state’s reputation for high‑quality pediatric services and strengthening local pride in Minnesota’s health‑care system.

The ranking, released in March 2024, evaluated 500 hospitals across the United States based on a weighted blend of national claims data, patient and family satisfaction, and outcomes from a variety of pediatric specialties. The methodology, described on the U.S. News website, emphasizes evidence‑based outcomes, including mortality rates, readmissions, and specialty‑specific performance. Hospitals also receive a national “overall” score and are ranked in individual specialty categories such as pediatric cardiology, neonatal intensive care, oncology, orthopedics, and neurosurgery.

Children’s Hospital of Minnesota (CHM) – 13th Nationally

Children’s Hospital of Minnesota (CHM), the state’s flagship pediatric center located in Minneapolis, earned a spot at number 13 on the national list. CHM is renowned for its comprehensive range of pediatric services, which include advanced cardiac surgery, a leading neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), pediatric oncology, orthopedics, and neurosurgery. The hospital’s performance in specialty rankings mirrored its overall placement: it landed in the top 15 for pediatric cardiology, pediatric oncology, and pediatric neurology, and was among the top 20 for NICU care and pediatric orthopedics.

CHM’s CEO, Dr. Michael B. Boucher, expressed both gratitude and humility in a statement: “We are honored to be recognized at the national level, but we also know that this accolade is a reminder of the responsibility we have to continue improving our care for the children who come to us with some of the most challenging health conditions.” He noted that CHM’s success is built on a culture of collaboration among physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals, and is supported by a strong community of philanthropic partners and volunteer organizations.

Mayo Clinic Children’s Hospital – 8th Nationally

Mayo Clinic’s pediatric services, based in Rochester and part of the broader Mayo Clinic Health System, ranked 8th nationally. While Mayo Clinic is widely known for adult medicine, its pediatric arm has grown into a world‑class program offering cutting‑edge treatments across specialties such as genetics, neuromuscular disorders, and pediatric cardiology. The hospital’s high ranking reflects a robust research program, a strong clinical network, and a high volume of complex pediatric cases, all of which contribute to improved outcomes.

The Mayo Clinic highlighted its unique interdisciplinary approach, wherein pediatric specialists work in close partnership with adult counterparts to manage conditions that span both age groups. The hospital’s pediatric division also benefits from the Mayo Clinic’s reputation for evidence‑based medicine, extensive clinical trials, and a deep commitment to patient education.

What the Rankings Mean for Minnesota

Both CHM and Mayo Clinic’s placement on the national list is more than a marketing win—it signals a tangible improvement in the quality of care that Minnesota’s children receive. The rankings often influence family decisions on where to seek care, insurance providers’ contracting decisions, and federal and state funding allocations. As a result, the top rankings may help attract further investment in pediatric research and facilities expansion in the region.

The ranking also highlights the importance of Minnesota’s public‑private partnership in health care. CHM’s funding comes from a mix of state support, private donations, and Medicare/Medicaid reimbursements. Mayo Clinic, a non‑profit organization, relies on a blend of patient revenue, research grants, and philanthropic contributions. Together, these institutions have cultivated an ecosystem that supports high‑level pediatric care, advanced medical research, and community outreach.

Broader Context and Related Rankings

U.S. News & World Report’s pediatric rankings are part of a larger set of national health evaluations. For example, the 2024 “Best U.S. Hospitals” list recognized Minnesota’s Mayo Clinic as one of the top 25 adult hospitals nationwide. Likewise, CHM has earned a number of specialty accolades in prior years, such as top‑10 status in pediatric oncology and pediatric neurology.

In addition to the overall ranking, the U.S. News site provides detailed specialty breakdowns. According to the methodology, hospitals that perform exceptionally well in certain specialties receive “top‑20” or “top‑50” honors, which further highlight expertise and patient outcomes. CHM’s NICU, for instance, earned a top‑20 spot, an achievement that underscores the hospital’s high survival rates for preterm infants and infants with complex congenital conditions.

Looking Forward

Both institutions have expressed plans to expand their services and invest in new technology. CHM is slated to add a state‑of‑the‑art pediatric cardiac catheterization lab and a dedicated pediatric telemedicine center to broaden access for rural families. Meanwhile, Mayo Clinic’s pediatric program is looking to increase its research footprint by launching a new genetics research institute focused on rare pediatric disorders.

Local policymakers and health‑care advocates see these developments as pivotal for sustaining Minnesota’s competitive edge in pediatric care. The state’s Department of Health has announced increased funding for pediatric programs, citing the U.S. News rankings as evidence of the need for continued investment.

Key Takeaways

• National Recognition: Children’s Hospital of Minnesota (ranked 13th) and Mayo Clinic Children’s Hospital (ranked 8th) are among the top pediatric hospitals in the United States.
• Specialty Excellence: Both hospitals consistently perform at the top of specialty categories such as cardiology, oncology, NICU care, and neurosurgery.
• Impact on Community: The rankings influence patient choice, insurance contracts, and funding decisions, reinforcing Minnesota’s reputation as a leader in pediatric health care.
• Future Growth: Both institutions plan significant expansion, including advanced cardiac facilities, telemedicine services, and research initiatives.

These rankings are more than a headline; they are a testament to the dedication of Minnesota’s pediatric health professionals, the strength of its healthcare infrastructure, and the community’s commitment to ensuring the best possible outcomes for children across the state.