Hospital Recognized for Excellence in Mastectomy and Hernia Surgery and Care

Cook County Health is proud to announce that its flagship facility, John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, has been recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Hospital for 2025.

The hospital was awarded this prestigious distinction for its exceptional performance in mastectomy surgery and care, ranking among the best in the United States, Illinois, and the Chicago metro area. Additionally, Stroger Hospital was named a top hospital in Illinois and the Chicago metro area for hernia surgery. The hospital earned a Gold Standard rating for both surgical procedures at the state level.  

“This recognition speaks volumes about the dedicated, compassionate care we provide at Stroger Hospital,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “I am incredibly proud of our team’s efforts to not only deliver exceptional medical outcomes but also ensure that every patient, regardless of their background or ability to pay, receives the highest standard of care. This is what Cook County Health stands for.” 

Castle Connolly Top Hospitals are selected based on a comprehensive review of quality indicators, patient outcomes, and the expertise of the institution’s medical staff. The recognition highlights Cook County Health’s commitment to providing world-class care to all patients while continuing its historic legacy of serving all in need.  

“We are honored to be ranked among the best hospitals in these surgical specialties,” said Dr. Erik Mikaitis, Cook County Health CEO. “We are committed to providing the best possible outcomes for our patients, and being named a Top Hospital recognizes our dedication to not only clinical excellence but also health equity.”  

“This recognition reflects the hard work, expertise, and compassion of our physicians, nurses, and care teams, who are dedicated to ensuring that every patient receives the care they deserve. It is an honor to serve our community, and we remain focused on providing the highest quality care in an inclusive environment,” said Donnica Austin-Cathey, Chief Hospital Executive of John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital.  

As a government-sponsored health system, Cook County Health is committed to providing care to all county residents, regardless of ability to pay. The health system has a long-standing commitment to advancing health equity, ensuring that every individual has access to the care they need, when they need it. This recognition from Castle Connolly underscores the hospital’s ongoing dedication to providing exceptional and equitable care that is on par with the top hospitals in the nation.  

For more information about Cook County Health and its services, visit www.cookcountyhealth.org.