Newsweek names Akron Children’s among the World’s Best Specialized and Smart Hospitals
10-16-2025 (Akron, Mahoning Valley, Ohio)
Akron Children’s has been named one of the World’s Best Specialized Hospitals in pediatrics and one of the World’s Best Smart Hospitals by Newsweek, recognizing the hospital’s commitment to exceptional care and innovation.
“Receiving these awards from Newsweek is a powerful validation of Akron Children’s long-standing commitment to exceptional, family-centered care,” said Chris Gessner, president and CEO of Akron Children’s. “In a state known for top-tier pediatric institutions, this recognition sets us apart as a leader – proving that world-class care doesn’t just exist in Ohio’s biggest cities.”
Newsweek’s World’s Best Specialized Hospitals rankings are based on three key data pillars:
- An international online survey of medical professionals
- Accreditation data
- Results of patient-reported outcome measure implementation surveys
As one of Newsweek’s World’s Best Smart Hospitals, Akron Children’s was recognized for its leadership in using digital innovation to advance patient care and health system efficiency.
According to Newsweek, smart hospitals use cutting-edge technology to rethink how care is delivered. This includes improving outcomes, efficiency and supporting broader health goals like prevention, population health and quality of life.
The World’s Best Smart Hospitals rankings were based on:
- An international online survey of health care professionals
- Statista’s Smart Hospitals Maturity Survey, which evaluated hospitals’ use of digital technologies across 10 areas
- Joint Commission International accreditation
In addition, desk research was conducted for each nominated hospital to validate its technological innovation and leadership in smart care. The top 350 hospitals represent 30 countries worldwide.
“Technology is deeply woven into how we deliver care, from predictive analytics to digital monitoring that enhances patient safety,” said Harun Rashid, chief information officer at Akron Children’s. “These recognitions affirm our investment in smart, data-driven systems that empower our teams and improve outcomes for our patients.”
