Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix and Banner – University Medical Center Tucson have been recognized as "Best Hospitals" for 2018-19 by U.S. News & World Report.

The University of Arizona-affiliated medical centers earned recognition in a variety of specialties in the publication's rankings.

"We are so proud to see Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix earn such tremendous accolades for its outstanding patient care," said Dr. Steve Narang, CEO of Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix. "In this ever-changing health care landscape, it is our mission to remain on the cutting-edge of clinical excellence."

This year, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix ranked No. 2 in Arizona and ranked among the best in the nation in five categories:

• Geriatrics (19)
• Pulmonology (31)
• Nephrology (32)
• Cardiology & Heart Surgery (43)
• Neurology & Neurosurgery (50)

In addition to the national rankings, the hospital was recognized as "high-performing" in the areas of cancer, gastroenterology and GI surgery, orthopedics and urology, as well as colon cancer surgery, heart bypass, heart failure and hip replacement.

"To be among the medical centers recognized in five specialty areas is a significant accomplishment, and is a testament to the work that our team does every day in support of building the relationship between our college and Banner," said Guy Reed, dean of the UA College of Medicine – Phoenix. "Let us continue to raise the bar for our students and patients, the community, and one another."

Banner – University Medical Center Tucson placed No. 1 in Tucson (No. 3 in Arizona) and ranked nationally in three specialties:

• Gynecology (36)
• Pulmonology (49)
• Nephrology (50)

"We are honored that U.S. News has recognized the hard work and dedication of our caregivers, educators and researchers at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson. Our team's continuing commitment to our patients and our community is unparalleled," said Sarah Frost, interim CEO of Banner – University Medical Center Tucson.

High-performing areas include cancer, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology and GI surgery and geriatrics, as well as heart failure and colon cancer surgery.

"The University of Arizona's academic and research relationship with Banner and its world-class facilities and specialists has been incredibly mutually beneficial. We're thrilled to see that reflected in the U.S. News rankings," said Dr. Irving Kron, interim executive dean of the UA College of Medicine – Tucson.

Now in its 29th year, the Best Hospitals rankings are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or common elective procedures.

This year, U.S. News & World Report evaluated more than 4,500 medical centers nationwide in 25 specialties, procedures and conditions. In the 16 specialty areas, 158 hospitals were ranked in at least one specialty. In rankings by state and metro areas, U.S. News recognized hospitals as high-performing across multiple care areas.

Best Hospitals was produced by U.S. News with RTI International, a leading research organization based in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.

Full rankings are available at https://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals.