University of Utah Hospital has been ranked as the number one hospital in the Salt Lake City metro area for the 13th consecutive year, according to the 2026-27 U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings released August 4, 2026. The assessment highlights the institution's continued dominance in the region and specialized excellence across several medical disciplines.
Specialized National Rankings
The latest rankings from U.S. News & World Report evaluated nearly 5,000 medical centers across the United States, analyzing more than 30 different services and specialties. The evaluation process utilizes a rigorous assessment of various indicators, including risk-adjusted survival rates, discharge-to-home rates, and nursing quality to determine top-quality patient care.
Eye and Rehabilitation Excellence
The University of Utah Health system achieved significant national recognition in several key departments. The John A. Moran Eye Center was ranked number nine in the country for ophthalmology care, marking the fifth consecutive year the center has received top 10 national recognition in this field. This ranking is based on expert opinion gathered from three years of comprehensive surveys conducted among practicing ophthalmologists nationwide.
Rehabilitation and Cancer Care
In addition to eye care, the Craig H. Neilsen Rehabilitation Hospital was ranked number one in Utah and number 38 nationally for rehabilitation care. The facility was recognized for its exceptional healing experience for patients recovering from severe medical events, including stroke, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
Huntsman Cancer Institute Success
The Huntsman Cancer Institute earned a ranking as the number one hospital for cancer care within the state of Utah and the Salt Lake City metro area. Nationally, the institute received a "high performing" designation. Specifically, the institute earned "high performing" ratings in multiple categories, including lung cancer surgery, prostate cancer surgery, gynecological cancer surgery, colon cancer surgery, and care for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma.
Leadership Reactions
University of Utah Health CEO Bob Carter stated that the recognition reflects the extraordinary commitment of teams across the health system. Carter noted that faculty and staff work together to provide care for patients throughout Utah and the Mountain West, emphasizing the organization's ongoing efforts to expand access to world-class care in various communities across the state.
Clinical Impact
Jeff Pettey, MD, MBA, chair of the University of Utah's Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, remarked that the top 10 national ranking provides patients with added confidence in the quality of care provided by Moran experts. Similarly, David P. Steinberg, MD, MMM, executive director and physician-in-chief of Neilsen Rehabilitation Hospital, stated that the ranking highlights a commitment to helping patients achieve their highest level of recovery through specialized, patient-centered care.
Commitment to Discovery
Bradley R. Cairns, PhD, CEO of Huntsman Cancer Institute, said that the recognition is a tribute to the dedication of the physicians, researchers, nurses, and staff. Cairns noted that at the institute, outstanding cancer care is inseparable from discovery, as teams work to advance prevention, early detection, innovative treatments, and survivorship while expanding access to care across the Mountain West.
