Santa Clara Valley Medical Center has again received accolades for its maternal and newborn care, securing a spot on the U.S. News & World Report's list of Best Hospitals for Maternal and Newborn Care for the fourth year. The recognition as High Performing in this category underscores the center's commitment to providing outstanding health services to all, placing special emphasis on the most vulnerable populations within Santa Clara County. As part of Santa Clara Valley Healthcare, California's second-largest public health entity, this esteemed facility includes three hospitals and an extensive network of primary care clinics that cater to the vast county region.
In a statement, County of Santa Clara Supervisor Betty Duong lauded the hospital, sharing her connection as both a "VMC baby" and a mother who gave birth to her daughter there. "Valley Medical Center is one of the jewels of Santa Clara County," Duong said, as per the County of Santa Clara. "As our safety-net hospital, it provides world-class health services to every patient, including our most vulnerable and marginalized residents," according to the county news release. Her testament adds a resonating human element, affirming the center's quality of care from a deeply personal perspective.
Hospitals throughout the nation are assessed across various safety categories related to childbirth, such as reducing unnecessary C-sections, episiotomies, and severe newborn complications. The criteria also include promoting alternatives like vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), breastfeeding initiatives, and, importantly, maintaining transparency in reporting any racial or ethnic disparities in care. "We strive to provide the highest level of care with compassion," Dr. James Byrne, Chair of the SCVMC Dept. of Obstetrics & Gynecology, told the County of Santa Clara. His comment highlights the hospital's dedication to ensuring positive outcomes for families during the critical period of welcoming a new child.
Focusing on patient safety, SCVMC has actively participated in quality improvement collaboratives. The center's initiatives have led to commendable achievements, like a high rate of VBACs and a baby-friendly designation that sees over 70 percent of newborns exclusively breastfed during their stay.
