Top Hospitals in Alabama: Your Go-To Guide for Quality Healthcare
Overview
Discover Alabama's top hospitals, your go-to for quality healthcare. From advanced facilities to compassionate care, find excellence in every service. Trust in our guide to navigate your healthcare journey with confidence.
University of Alabama Hospital
UAB Health System which is owned by the University of Alabama System.
UAB Hospital, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a major academic medical center and the flagship hospital of the UAB Health System. It is one of the largest and most comprehensive hospitals in the Southeast, known for its advanced medical treatments and commitment to research and education. The hospital excels in numerous specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, and organ transplantation. As a leading teaching hospital, UAB Hospital is affiliated with the University of Alabama at Birmingham and plays a critical role in training future healthcare professionals.
Birmingham, AL
Children's of Alabama
Children's of Alabama, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is one of the largest pediatric medical centers in the United States. Affiliated with the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), the hospital is dedicated to providing specialized healthcare for children from birth through young adulthood. It offers a comprehensive range of pediatric services and is known for its expertise in cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and neonatology. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on family-centered care, Children’s of Alabama is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to children across Alabama and the Southeast.
Birmingham, AL
Crestwood Medical Center
Crestwood Medical Center, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is a key healthcare facility providing a comprehensive range of medical services to the residents of North Alabama. Part of the Crestwood Healthcare system, the hospital is known for its high-quality care and advanced treatments in specialties such as cardiology, orthopedics, surgery, and women’s health. Crestwood Medical Center is dedicated to delivering patient-centered care and improving the health and well-being of its community through state-of-the-art medical technology and compassionate service.
Huntsville, AL
DCH Regional Medical Center
DCH Regional Medical Center, located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is the flagship hospital of the DCH Health System. It provides a comprehensive range of healthcare services and is known for its commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care. The hospital excels in numerous specialties, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, neurology, and trauma care. DCH Regional Medical Center is dedicated to improving health outcomes and supporting the well-being of its community through advanced medical treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and compassionate care.
Tuscaloosa, AL
Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children
Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children, located in Huntsville, Alabama, is a dedicated healthcare facility focused on providing specialized medical care for women and children. Part of the Huntsville Hospital Health System, the hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, and neonatal care. It is known for its advanced treatments and state-of-the-art facilities, providing a supportive and family-centered environment for patients. The hospital is committed to delivering high-quality care and improving the health and well-being of women and children in North Alabama.
Huntsville, AL
St. Vincent's Birmingham
St. Vincent's Birmingham, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a leading healthcare facility and part of Ascension St. Vincent’s. Known for its comprehensive range of medical services, the hospital excels in specialties such as cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and women’s health. St. Vincent's Birmingham is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care and is recognized for its advanced treatments and state-of-the-art facilities. The hospital is committed to improving health outcomes and enhancing the well-being of the communities it serves in Central Alabama.
Dr, Birmingham, AL
Brookwood Baptist Medical Center
Brookwood Baptist Medical Center, located in Birmingham, Alabama, is a prominent healthcare facility within the Brookwood Baptist Health system. The hospital provides a comprehensive range of medical services and is known for its expertise in cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopedics, and women's health. With a focus on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care, Brookwood Baptist Medical Center combines advanced medical treatments with compassionate service to meet the diverse healthcare needs of its community.
Dr, Birmingham, AL
East Alabama Medical Center
East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC), located in Opelika, Alabama, is a leading healthcare facility serving East Alabama and the surrounding region. EAMC offers a comprehensive range of medical services and excels in various specialties, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and emergency care. The hospital is known for its advanced treatments and commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on community health, East Alabama Medical Center is dedicated to improving health outcomes and enhancing the well-being of its patients.
Opelika, AL
Infirmary Health - Mobile Infirmary
Mobile Infirmary, located in Mobile, Alabama, is a leading healthcare facility and part of the Infirmary Health system. As one of the largest hospitals in Alabama, Mobile Infirmary provides a comprehensive range of medical services, including cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and emergency care. The hospital is known for its advanced treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to patient-centered care. Mobile Infirmary is dedicated to improving health outcomes and enhancing the well-being of its patients and the broader community through innovative healthcare practices and compassionate service.
Cir, Mobile, AL
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Cleft Surgery
Experience and Expertise
When seeking treatment for a congenital condition like cleft lip or palate, experience and expertise of the surgeons and staff are paramount. Look for hospitals with dedicated craniofacial units and surgeons who specialize in cleft repair and have performed hundreds of successful procedures. More experience typically means better long-term results and a lower chance of complications.
Range of Services
The top hospitals will offer a comprehensive range of services for cleft patients, from initial diagnosis and treatment planning to follow-up care and revision surgeries if needed. They should have speech pathologists, dentists, orthodontists and psychologists on staff to properly assess and treat all aspects of cleft care. Some may even have designated cleft palate or craniofacial teams to coordinate care.
Latest Techniques and Technology
Hospitals on the cutting edge will utilize the latest techniques like nasoalveolar molding before surgery to improve outcomes. They should have state-of-the-art facilities and tools like 3D imaging, endoscopes and lasers. Minimally invasive procedures, when appropriate, can lead to quicker recovery and less scarring.
Family-Centered Care
The top hospitals recognize that cleft conditions affect the whole family. They should offer resources and support for parents like counseling services, educational materials and support groups. Family involvement in the treatment planning process is ideal. Look for hospitals with child life specialists, social workers and facilities geared toward children.
Choosing a hospital with experience, expertise, advanced techniques and a family-centered philosophy of care will help ensure the best outcome for your child’s cleft surgery. While cost and location may also be factors, quality of care should be the top priority. With the right team and facility, your child will have the best chance at a safe surgery, successful treatment and positive long-term outcome.
For more information please visit Mespoir & US News Health.
General Cleft lip & Palate Surgery Information:
How much does Cleft lip and palate repair cost?
Cleft lip and palate repair can cost between $5,000 and $13,405 over 12 months. The cost depends on a number of factors, including the patient's insurance coverage, the surgeon's experience, and the type of procedure. Some procedures may be covered by full medical insurance. Source.
According to the CDC, about 1 in every 1,700 babies in the United States is born with cleft palate. Cleft lip and palate are among the most common birth defects in the country, affecting about one in every 700 babies. However, cleft palate is more common in Asian/Pacific, Latinx, or Native American children than in children of other races. Source.
How long does cleft lip and palate surgery take?
Cleft lip surgery usually takes between 1–6 hours, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the cleft. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is unconscious during the procedure. The surgeon may use an operating microscope to join the tissues that have not joined before birth. The stitches are then removed after a few days, or may dissolve on their own. Source.
After surgery, the patient will stay in the hospital for at least one night, and most babies can go home after 1–2 days. The surgeon may prescribe medicines to help make the patient more comfortable and protect against infection. The patient will need a liquid or blenderized diet for about 3 weeks after surgery before starting to eat foods that are hard or crunchy. Source.
How long does cleft lip and palate surgery take?
Cleft lip surgery usually takes between 1–6 hours, depending on the type of repair and the extent of the cleft. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is unconscious during the procedure. The surgeon may use an operating microscope to join the tissues that have not joined before birth. The stitches are then removed after a few days, or may dissolve on their own. Source.
Surgery Resource Information:
Preparing for your child's cleft lip and palate surgery involves several steps and considerations to ensure a safe and successful procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, here's what you should prepare:
Pre-Surgical Considerations
Before the surgery, discuss with your surgeon any pre-surgical considerations, which may include diagnostic testing and medications required before the procedure.
Day-of-Surgery Instructions
Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for the day of the surgery. This typically includes guidelines about fasting, medications, and arrival time at the hospital.
Anesthesia Information
You'll receive detailed information regarding the use of anesthesia during the surgery. Understanding this is crucial for managing expectations about the surgery and post-operative care.
Postoperative Care and Follow-up
Familiarize yourself with the postoperative care requirements and the schedule for follow-up visits. Proper postoperative care is vital for recovery and the best surgical outcome.
.png)
No-No pediatric arm immobilizers are designed to ensure a safer and quicker recovery for your child. These user-friendly arm restraint bands are essential for post-surgery care. Discover more about our pediatric arm restraints and view our product range .
Hospital Admission
Initial cleft lip and cleft palate repairs are usually performed in a hospital setting. Most commonly, this will require an overnight stay for your child, so plan accordingly. It's important to have thorough discussions with your child's surgeon to understand all aspects of the surgery, from preparation to recovery. Feel free to ask any questions you might have to ensure you're fully prepared for your child's procedure.
Hospital Admission
Initial cleft lip and cleft palate repairs are usually performed in a hospital setting. Most commonly, this will require an overnight stay for your child, so plan accordingly.
Post Surgery Information
After cleft palate surgery, you can expect your child to stay in the hospital for at least one or two days. You can expect the following:
Swelling and Bleeding
Swelling and small amounts of bleeding are normal. You can apply ice to the surgical side of the face on the first day after surgery, and early on the second day only. You can use a mustache dressing for nasal bleeding.
Clear Liquids
Your child can drink clear liquids from a cup only, and should not use utensils or straws.
Stitches
Your child will have stitches in their mouth for several weeks, but some dissolve sooner. You can use your tongue, but do not play with the stitches. Do not pull at the stitches, as they will come out on their own.
Snoring
Your child may snore and sound congested for several weeks. This will go away when the swelling goes down and there is less drainage.
Sleep
It may be harder for your child to sleep as well as before surgery, but sleep habits should return to normal after several weeks.
Diet
For the first two weeks after surgery, give only soft food. This allows time for the palate to heal. You can use a blender or food processor to smooth many table foods to an even, baby-food texture. You can add liquids such as chicken or beef broth, milk, gravy, or smooth sauces to meats and vegetables. You can also use fruit juice to blend with fruit. Avoid hard foods such as toast, biscuits or rusks during healing
To learn more about post cleft lip and cleft palate surgery information, please visit the following resource pages by:
-
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Additional Resources: -
Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate Surgery: Repair Steps & Post-op Care
Disclaimer from H & H Research Inc.
H & H Research Inc. provides digital content for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. In emergencies, contact local emergency services or visit the nearest emergency facility. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning any health-related program. Our content, including texts, graphics, and other materials, is developed for general information and should not be taken as medical guidance. Always consult a healthcare professional for advice on medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The efficacy and safety of products or treatments mentioned are not guaranteed. Information may change and is not intended to cover all possible health scenarios. H & H Research Inc. does not endorse specific medical tests, products, or professional opinions mentioned in our content.