Families in the Lakewood area can take comfort in knowing that several nearby hospitals have been named among the best in the state for maternity care. U.S. News & World Report recently released its 2025 list of the Best Hospitals for Maternity Care, highlighting facilities that provide outstanding labor and delivery services for uncomplicated pregnancies.
Among the 25 hospitals in New Jersey recognized for meeting the highest standards, four local hospitals frequently used by Lakewood-area residents were distinguished as High Performing – the highest designation in the rankings.
The top-performing local hospitals include:
- Jersey Shore University Medical Center – Hackensack Meridian Health, Neptune
- Community Medical Center – Toms River
- Monmouth Medical Center – Long Branch Campus
- Ocean University Medical Center – Hackensack Meridian Health, Brick
These hospitals were evaluated on key factors such as childbirth complication rates, breastfeeding support, and “birthing-friendly” practices. U.S. News also assessed whether hospitals track and report health outcomes for patients from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds – a critical factor in ensuring equitable care.
Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune and Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch are long-standing choices for maternity services, known for their advanced facilities and comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care programs. Community Medical Center in Toms River continues to serve as a trusted local option, while Ocean University Medical Center in Brick offers high-quality maternity care through the Hackensack Meridian Health network.
In total, 25 hospitals across the state were recognized for excellence in maternity care, but these four stand out as the most accessible options for families in Ocean and Monmouth counties.
And yet in Lakewood there is no hospital offering maternity care!
WHAT?! That puts a strain on Ocean University Medical Center and Community Medical Center!