MOBILE, Alabama — USA Health Providence Hospital has been named High Performing in Back Surgery (Spinal Fusion) by U.S. News & World Report, placing it among the top-performing hospitals in the nation for this complex and critical procedure.

In an evaluation of more than 4,500 hospitals, only 500 received a “High Performing” rating. This designation is awarded to hospitals with significantly better patient outcomes, including lower complication rates, fewer readmissions, and successful recovery at home.

“Spine surgery is a very complex process, that starts with pre-surgical patient optimization, precise surgical care, followed by carefully planned post-operative care pathways and follow-up,” said Rick Metzger, MMHC, BSN, CEO of USA Health Providence Hospital. “This recognition demonstrates the promise USA Health makes to our community each and every day—to help patients live longer, better lives.”

Among the highlights, Providence received excellent scores for its back surgery (spinal fusion) care in terms of how often patients go directly home rather than being discharged to another facility and how successful it helps patients recover at home, with minimal time spent in the hospital ER or nursing home.

According to the U.S. News & World Report scorecard, this likely indicates effective inpatient care, follow-up care, and clear communication of discharge self-care instructions.

“Our team at Providence, from our surgeons to our nurses and technicians, are incredibly talented and provide the highest quality care,” said Alecia Torrance, MBA, MSN(c), CNOR, CSSM, assistant hospital administrator. “Patients who suffer from back pain in the Gulf Coast region are very fortunate to have such a talented group of professionals who take their jobs seriously and receive evidence-based comprehensive treatment and care at USA Health Providence Hospital.”

The U.S. News & World Report Procedures & Conditions Ratings are designed to help patients make informed decisions about where to seek care for high-stakes medical conditions. The ratings factor in patient survival, discharge practices, complication rates, procedure volume, and equity in care.

“I am very proud of our entire team at USA Health Providence for earning this well-deserved recognition,” Metzger said. “Fundamental to highly reliable processes that lead to superior outcomes is everyone buying into a patient-centered approach, and that is exactly what our care teams strive for each and every day.”

About USA Health Providence Hospital

Part of USA Health, the academic health system for the University of South Alabama, Providence Hospital is a full-service 349-bed hospital providing 24/7 emergency care and a level III trauma center as well as exceptional birthing services, surgical procedures and specialty care to residents of the Gulf Coast. These two Mobile institutions are forging one bright future ahead. Founded in 1854, Providence has a history of service and charity, which aligns with USA Health’s mission to help people lead longer, better lives.