Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine has again been recognized among the best medical schools in the nation, ranking in tier one of research-oriented institutions, according to the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, released today. The rankings feature a new methodology, with medical schools being placed into one of four tiers.

“We are always pleased to be recognized among the nation’s best medical schools,” said Eric G. Neilson, MD, vice president for medical affairs and Lewis Landsberg Dean. “However, since there are no longer any ordinal rankings, and given the absence of departmental rankings and many of our academic peers, the school is currently evaluating whether to provide data to U.S News going forward if it continues using this new methodology.”

Over the last 17 years, Feinberg has consistently ranked in the top tier of research-oriented medical schools. While no departmental specialty rankings were included with this year’s Best Medical School Rankings, earlier this summer, Feinberg’s physical therapy program was ranked 4th in the nation and the Feinberg public health program was ranked 29th – the highest among public health programs administered by a US medical school.

“No matter the rankings methodology, it does not change our approach; we are committed to our annual internal measures of academic success,” Neilson said. “Our focus on patients first, breakthrough discovery, innovation, and superb medical education remain our highest priorities. I am grateful for the tireless efforts and continued commitment of all our extraordinary faculty, staff, students, and trainees. Together, along with our world-class clinical affiliates, we are delivering on our mission to improve human health and transform modern medicine.”

Clinical Affiliates Rank Among the Best

Earlier this month, U.S. News & World Report released rankings of best hospitals, and for the 13th consecutive year, Northwestern Memorial Hospital was named to the Best Hospital Honor Roll, a select group of hospitals from around the country recognized for their exceptional performance across specialties, procedures and conditions. Following recent changes to ranking methodology, Honor Roll hospitals do not receive a numerical ranking; instead, all Honor Roll hospitals are designated as number one in both their state and regional rankings.

At the same time, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab was again recognized as the national leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation, topping the U.S. News & World Report list for the 34th consecutive year. It remains the only hospital of any kind to hold this distinction.