Medical Center in Alma Named to Best Hospitals for Maternity Care List

U.S. News & World Report has named MyMichigan Medical Center Alma as a 2025 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care. This is the highest award a hospital can earn as part of U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care annual study. The designation is measured by factors such as severe unexpected newborn complication rates, birthing-friendly practices and transparency on racial/ethnic disparities, among other measures. In addition, the Medical Center was granted a designation as a “Maternity Care Access Hospital,” which is given to hospitals that provide access to vital maternity care services in their community.

“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,” said 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.”

U.S. News began evaluating maternity care hospitals in 2021, rating hospitals that provide labor and delivery services and submit detailed data to the publication for analysis. Best Hospitals for Maternity Care assist expectant parents, in consultation with their prenatal care team, in making informed decisions about where to receive maternity services that best meets their family’s needs.

U.S. News evaluated 817 hospitals from across the United States. Only half of all hospitals evaluated for U.S. News’ 2025 ratings edition have been recognized as Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. The U.S. News Best Hospitals for Maternity Care 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. Those interested in learning more may visit Best Hospitals for Maternity Care.

Patients at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma have a comfortable, state-of-the-art and family-centered place to give birth. The Maternity Center features three triage rooms plus nine private birthing suites where moms can stay in one location throughout their hospital stay, from labor and delivery through recovery and postpartum care. Rooms are designed with the family in mind, offering more space and comfortable accommodations for the baby and support partner to stay with the mom. Larger rooms also improve access for clinical staff to provide bedside education and care for the mother and baby.

In addition, the Maternity Center in Alma features a state-of-the-art operating room for cesarean sections; a nursery for when babies need monitoring or special procedures; a security system, and in-room refrigerators for patients to keep their favorite refreshments close at hand.

“Our Maternity Center provides a beautiful and calm, home-like environment where our patients receive individualized and supportive care,” added 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.”

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 U.S. News & World Report. MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch also received the “Maternity Care Access Hospital” distinction.

Those interested in more information on the Maternity Centers at MyMichigan Health may visit www.mymichigan.org/maternity. To learn more about the award from U.S. News & World Report visit www.mymichigan.org/usnewsmaternity.