Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospitals Recognized Among Nation’s Best
Intermountain Health’s Primary Children’s Hospitals have received impressive national rankings in all 11 pediatric specialties assessed by U.S. News & World Report in its 2026-27 Best Children’s Hospitals list, which was made public today.
For the third year in a row, the Salt Lake City, Lehi, and Taylorsville campuses of Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospitals, in collaboration with the University of Utah Health, have been acknowledged as some of the top children’s hospitals in the country across every specialty evaluated.
This year, the hospitals celebrated an increase in the number of specialties ranked among the nation’s Top 25 programs, going from six to seven. Notably, the areas of pediatric neonatology and cancer made their debut in the Top 25 rankings this year.
These rankings highlight the growth and commitment of Intermountain Health to pediatric innovation, research, and clinical excellence. Many Richards, the Chief Nursing Executive and president of Intermountain Children’s Health, emphasized the significance of this recognition. “Being recognized in all 11 pediatric specialty categories shows the exceptional dedication of our caregivers and the trust families place in us every day,” she stated. “This honor represents the expertise, innovation, and compassion that drives Intermountain Children’s Health. I am deeply thankful for our caregivers who put children first, supporting them in living healthy lives and reaching their full potential.”
As a leading pediatric hospital serving a seven-state region, Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospitals continue to push forward the future of pediatric healthcare through innovative research, advanced therapies, and coordinated care.
The hospitals are recognized for their advancements in various areas, including cancer treatment, congenital heart care, neonatal medicine, transplantation, and pediatric surgery. These efforts are establishing a national standard for pediatric care while ensuring that families have access to specialized treatment near home.
Dustin Lipson, president of Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospital at the Salt Lake Campus, expressed pride in the work accomplished with the University of Utah Health partners. “Our collaboration has led to meaningful advancements in research and treatment options for children,” he affirmed.
According to the 2026-27 U.S. News rankings, Intermountain Primary Children’s Hospitals achieved Top 25 national rankings in seven pediatric specialties:
- Orthopedics: No. 11
- Cardiology & Heart Surgery: No. 11
- Neurology & Neurosurgery: No. 12
- Urology: No. 15
- Nephrology: No. 17
- Neonatology: No. 19
- Cancer: No. 20
In addition to these top rankings, the hospitals received recognition within the Top 50 for four more specialties:
- Gastroenterology & GI Surgery: No. 27
- Diabetes & Endocrinology: No. 30
- Pulmonology & Lung Surgery: No. 40
- Behavioral Health: Top 50 designation (note: U.S. News lists Top 50 programs in this category without specific rank order).
Dr. Angelo P. Giardino, chair of the University of Utah School of Medicine’s Department of Pediatrics and chief medical officer of Intermountain Children’s Health, highlighted the hospitals’ performance. He noted that their successful outcomes reflect a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement among caregivers, physicians, and community partners. “Together, we are enhancing pediatric medicine with innovative treatments and improved patient experiences, ensuring specialized care is accessible to children in our region,” he added.
This recognition affirms the ongoing commitment of Intermountain Health to provide the highest quality pediatric care focused on the needs of every child they serve.
