Newswise — U.S. News & World Report ranked the Mass. Eye and Ear/Mass General Department of Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose, Throat, Head & Neck) at the very top of its national 2015-16 “Best Hospitals” rankings

This number one ranking is based on many factors, including: quality of care, patient safety and reputation among board-certified otolaryngologists. Although it consistently ranks as a top department, this is the first time since 1996 that the Mass. Eye and Ear Department of Otolaryngology achieved number one status. Last year’s survey ranked the department at #4 in the nation. The Mass. Eye and Ear/Mass General Department of Ophthalmology is also ranked among the best in the nation, holding steady in the #4 spot and #1 in the Northeast. The ophthalmology ranking is based solely on a reputational survey of board-certified ophthalmologists around the country.

"We are very pleased that US News and World Report recognized the Mass. Eye and Ear departments,” said John Fernandez, President and CEO. "It speaks directly to the high quality of care offered by Mass. Eye and Ear physicians, nurses, technicians and staff, each and every day. They are the ones who make such a difference in providing life-changing care to our patients."

"This recognition is theirs," continued Chief of Otolaryngology, D. Bradley Welling, MD, PhD, FACS, speaking about the faculty and staff. "It is truly an honor to lead this department.”

In 2009, Mass. Eye and Ear and Mass General announced a clinical and academic collaboration in ophthalmology and otolaryngology, which is why both hospitals are named in the ranking.