July 7, 2000

BIRMINGAM, AL — Eight programs from UAB are ranked in this year's U.S. News and World Report's annual "America's Best Hospitals" issue. The magazine selects 50 programs in 17 medical specialties. UAB is the only Alabama hospital included in the listing.

UAB's rheumatology program retained its 5th place ranking for the third year in a row. UAB's heart program (cardiology and cardiac surgery) is ranked 11th, and its cancer program is ranked 23rd. The gynecology program retained its No. 22 position from last year.

This year, U.S. News added kidney disease as a specialty for the first time; UAB's program is ranked 15th.

"UAB is proud to provide the people of Alabama with world-class medical care," says David Fine, CEO of the UAB Health System. "The clinicians and researchers at UAB are among the finest anywhere. It's gratifying to have their accomplishments recognized."

Three other UAB programs also were recognized by U.S. News: orthopedics (31), ear, nose and throat (49), and hormonal disorders (49).

2000 marks the ninth consecutive time the rheumatology program has been ranked. Cardiology has been ranked for the past five years.