FARRELL, Pa. - UPMC Horizon has received recognition from U.S. News & World Report as a 2026 High-Performing hospital for Maternity Care. The publication also named the hospital a Maternity Care Access Hospital, a designation highlighting facilities that provide essential services in communities with limited obstetric resources.

U.S. News & World Report evaluates nearly 900 hospitals across the nation annually to determine its Best Hospitals for Maternity Care rankings. The High Performing designation is awarded to institutions that meet specific quality standards. UPMC Horizon was one of several UPMC facilities to receive this rating.

Dave Patton, president of UPMC Horizon and UPMC Jameson, stated that the recognition reflects the dedication of the hospital’s staff.

“This prestigious recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication and skill of our entire team at UPMC Horizon,” Patton said.

The methodology for the rankings included an assessment of critical performance metrics. These measures involved cesarean section rates in lower-risk pregnancies, the frequency of severe unexpected newborn complications, rates of exclusive breast milk feeding, and the implementation of birthing-friendly practices.

In addition to the performance rating, UPMC Horizon received the Maternity Care Access Hospital designation. This category recognizes hospitals serving areas that might otherwise lack sufficient maternity care, often referred to as maternity care deserts. Among the hospitals evaluated for the 2026 ratings, 147 institutions, or 16% of the total, received this specific designation.

Patton noted that UPMC Horizon is currently the only health care system providing obstetric services in Mercer and Lawrence counties.

UPMC Horizon delivers more than 1,000 babies annually. It joins UPMC Altoona, UPMC Carlisle, UPMC Chautauqua, UPMC Northwest and UPMC Western Maryland in receiving the access designation.