Becker’s Hospital Review recognized UAB Hospital on its 2025 list of “100 Great Neuro and Spine Programs”, which highlights national leaders in spine and neuroscience care. The annual list honors organizations that elevate patient outcomes, pioneer new research, and expand access to essential services.
In its report, Becker’s noted that UAB Hospital performs more than 1,200 spine procedures each year, covering the full range of spinal disorders. It recognized our program’s highly collaborative care model that brings together experts in neurosurgery, orthopaedics, neurology, rehabilitation, and pain management. This multispecialty approach helps ensure that patients receive coordinated, evidence-based care tailored to their needs.
Becker’s also highlighted several program strengths, including:
- Early adoption of leading technology – UAB was the first hospital in the Birmingham area to introduce the ExcelsiusGPS robotic spine system, which improves precision for minimally invasive procedures and supports faster recoveries for patients.
- A commitment to research and discovery – More than $5 million in research funding was awarded last year to the UAB departments of Neurosurgery and Orthopaedics, to support innovation in spinal surgery and neuroscience.
- Excellent patient outcomes – This is supported by the program’s enhanced recovery protocol, which has reduced hospital stays, improved patient mobility, and lowered opioid use while sustaining top marks in safety measures, such as a 98% postoperative renal safety rate.
- National quality recognition – This includes The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval certification for advanced spine surgery and a “high performing” rating in back surgery and spinal fusion from U.S. News & World Report for 2025-2026.
This recognition from Becker’s places UAB Medicine among a select group of hospitals and health systems nationwide that are setting new standards for excellence in neuro and spine care.