U.S. News & World Report has recognized the Department of Pediatrics at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania as the leading department of pediatrics in the United States. This marks the 5thconsecutive year that the department has achieved the top ranking.

"I am delighted that our department of pediatrics remains the nation's best and I congratulate the faculty and staff, for their sustained record of excellence," said Madeline Bell, president and chief executive officer, of Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

"This ranking is a reflection of the impressive talent among our faculty, trainees, and staff and the tremendous support from the Hospital in creating a remarkable environment for clinical and academic work" said Joseph St. Geme, M.D., physician-in-chief and Pediatrics Department chair.

Announced today by the magazine in its annual listing of the best medical schools and other graduate programs, this recognition marks the 14th consecutive year that the department has been ranked first or second in the nation.

This year's rankings of the top three departments of pediatrics replicated last year's results, with Harvard University in 2nd place and the University of Cincinnati in the 3rd spot. The 2018 rankings were based on ratings by medical school deans and senior faculty at peer Schools, who identified up to 10 schools offering the best programs in each specialty.

About The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was founded in 1855 as the nation's first pediatric hospital. Through its long-standing commitment to providing exceptional patient care, training new generations of pediatric healthcare professionals and pioneering major research initiatives, Children's Hospital has fostered many discoveries that have benefited children worldwide. Its pediatric research program is among the largest in the country. In addition, its unique family-centered care and public service programs have brought the 535-bed hospital recognition as a leading advocate for children and adolescents. For more information, visit http://www.chop.edu.