Aspirus Wausau Hospital (AWH) has been named a Blue Distinction Center for Maternity Care, a national designation from Blue Cross and Blue Shield recognizing facilities that demonstrate expertise and a commitment to delivering high-quality maternity care.
The designation, effective April 15, 2026, recognizes hospitals that meet rigorous national quality standards for both vaginal and cesarean deliveries. Facilities earning this distinction are evaluated on a range of measures tied to improved outcomes, including lower rates of elective deliveries, cesarean births, and episiotomies, as well as strong adherence to evidence-based safety protocols.
AWH previously earned this designation in 2021 and has worked to strengthen its maternity care program to regain recognition in 2026. The designation highlights the organization’s continued focus on quality improvement, patient safety, and evidence-based care practices.
Blue Distinction Centers for Maternity Care are evaluated using nationally consistent criteria that assess quality outcomes, patient safety measures, and care processes. This includes standardized protocols for obstetric emergencies, participation in quality improvement initiatives, and ongoing performance measurement to ensure the highest level of care for mothers and newborns.
“Regaining this designation reflects the dedication and collaboration of our entire maternity care team,” said Pamela Warnke, Director of Quality and Patient Safety at Aspirus Wausau Hospital. “Our teams have remained focused on continuous improvement, implementing evidence-based practices, and ensuring every patient receives safe, high-quality care during one of life’s most important moments.”
The Blue Distinction designation is awarded to individual facilities that demonstrate measurable quality outcomes and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. The program emphasizes reducing complications, improving maternal health outcomes, and advancing equitable care across patient populations.
Aspirus Wausau Hospital’s Birthing Center provides comprehensive maternity services, supporting families throughout pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care. This recognition reinforces Aspirus’ commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care across the region.
For more information about birthing services at Aspirus, visit
https://www.aspirus.org/birthing-services.