When most people think of San Diego, they think of beautiful beaches and delicious food. However, San Diego is also home to some of the best hospitals in the country. San Diego has several world-renowned hospitals that provide exceptional care to people from all over. Each hospital has different areas of expertise, and it is essential to consider your personal needs and the recommendations of medical professionals for which hospital you should visit. The top recommended hospitals in San Diego are Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, UC San Diego Health, Sharp Memorial Hospital, Scripps Mercy Hospital, Palomar Medical Center Escondido, and Rady Children’s Hospital.
Scripps Memorial Hospital – La Jolla
Scripps Memorial Hospital in La Jolla will celebrate 100 years of service in 2024. The hospital is known for orthopedics, cardiology, gynecology, gastroenterology, and urology. They are home to a Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and a Level 2 trauma center. One thing locals love about Scripps Memorial Hospital is the flexibility in visiting hours. While the hospital recommends visitors from 8 am to 8:30 pm, they are lenient with these hours based on patient needs and wants. Stop by their gift shop for flowers, and stuffed animals, get well cards, and other treats if you plan a patient visit. Scripps Memorial Hospital is the first San Diego hospital recognized by the American Nursing Association as a Magnet hospital for excellent patient care. The staff is professional and attentive, and everyone is helpful, from the front desk to the doctors. The hospital is regarded for its start of the art facilities and beautiful campus.
UC San Diego Health
UC San Diego Health is a hospital network throughout San Diego County, with UC San Diego Medical Center in San Diego and Jacobs Medical Center, Moores Cancer Center, and Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center in La Jolla. Moores Cancer Center is known as one of the top cancer centers in the country. The hospital system is well known as a university-based research hospital. They partner with UC San Diego medical school, one of the highest-rated medical programs across the United States. They are patient-centered and specialize in rheumatology, infectious disease, and kidney care. They specialize in geriatric emergency care to provide intentional care to seniors with unique needs, such as memory or hearing difficulties.
Sharp Memorial Hospital
Sharp Memorial Hospital, located in the Serra Mesa area of San Diego, is known as a significant emergency and Level 2 trauma hospital. They are known for outstanding care in heart health, bariatric surgery, cancer treatment, organ transplant, and orthopedics. The state-of-the-art labor and delivery center, Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women & Newborns, is next door for maternal-fetal care.
Scripps Mercy Hospital
Scripps Mercy Hospital is a long-standing part of San Diego’s history. It started in 1890 in downtown San Diego with only five beds. It has grown to include O’Toole Breast Care Center, a Level 2 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a Level 1 trauma center, and a highly regarded outpatient physical rehab center. Scripps Mercy Hospital is home to the Woltman Family College Building, previously used as a nurse training center. It now provides cancer support and education for patients and their families. The Scripps Canine Therapy Program provides daily animal therapy to patients throughout the hospital. Patients and their families can request a visit from a dog to bring a smile to their faces and brighten their day, making Scripps Mercy Hospital a special hospital.
Palomar Medical Center Escondido
Palomar Medical Center Escondido is the newest hospital in the area. Founded in 2012, it is the only designated trauma center in North County, San Diego. They are known for being a Level 2 trauma center and burn center and providing specialized care in cancer treatment, cardiac care, neurology, and pediatric care. Palomar Medical Center has won several awards for its exceptional patient care and safety standards. The campus is still developing, with plans to double in size, and the space utilizes light and nature to promote healing.
Rady Children’s Hospital
Rady Children’s Hospital is the largest children’s hospital in California. It is home to a Level 1 pediatric trauma center and has treated nearly 2 million children since opening in 1954. In 2020, U.S. News & World Report ranked Rady Children’s Hospital in all ten specialty areas. They are developing the first inpatient children’s chronic pain program in Southern California. They are committed to finding pain relief and support for children without opioids
