UH is only Ohio hospital to crack first U.S. News ranking for equitable access

• The list of 98 U.S. hospitals highlights top regional health centers that meet benchmarks of service for historically disadvantaged populations.

By the numbers: U.S. News & World Report considered nearly 5,000 hospitals in its rankings.

• Only 11% met the qualifications for the "Best Hospitals" designation and only 2% were recognized for equitable access.

Zoom in: Criteria for the equitable access list included serving at least 40% of patients from communities with heightened socioeconomic need, as measured by the Area Deprivation Index, and at least 20% of patients belonging to racial or ethnic minorities.

What they're saying: "We are fulfilling our founders' pledge that 'the needy are the most worthy,'" UH CEO Cliff Megerian said in a statement.

• "We take pride in knowing we are making a difference in the lives of our community members."

Zoom out: U.S. News & World Report ranked Cleveland Clinic No. 1 in the nation for cardiology, heart and vascular surgery for the 30th consecutive year.

• It was also named to the publication's "Honor Roll," recognizing the 20 best hospitals in the country.
• UH earned a Top 50 ranking in three specialties: cancer, neurology/neurosurgery, and ear, nose and throat care.