The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics were ranked no. 1 in the state by an annual U.S. News & World Report listing of "The Best Hospitals in America."

This year marks the first time that the publication has also ranked hospitals within each of the 50 states, according to a UI press release.

"Our faculty and staff are focused on providing excellent care and outstanding service," Kenneth Kates, associate vice president of UI Health Care and CEO of UIHC, said in the press release. "Their hard work and devotion to our patients and families is the key to achieving this kind of recognition, so all the credit goes to our people who do such a tremendous job every day."

—By Kristen East