East Central Reporter

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) hospitals in Illinois have announced the most popular names for babies born at their central Illinois facilities in 2024. At HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, the top boy's name was Elijah, while Charlotte led among girls. In Effingham, at HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital, Hudson was the leading name for boys and Lainey for girls. Meanwhile, at HSHS St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, there were ties: Asher, Beau, Everett, Grayson, Kohen, and Levi shared the top spot for boys; Aurora, Emma, Felicity, Lainey, and Sophia tied among girls.

In total, over 3,200 babies were delivered across these hospitals last year. For those expecting children in 2025, each hospital provides various services for mothers and infants such as prenatal classes available on their respective websites under Classes and Events.

The hospitals emphasize safety and quality care for mothers and newborns. Notably, St. Francis Hospital’s Family Maternity Center is recognized by Cribs for Kids as a safe sleep leader due to its adherence to best practices aimed at reducing infant mortality. Additionally, St. John’s Hospital is designated as a Level III Perinatal Center offering comprehensive care with maternal/fetal medicine specialists available around the clock to support expectant mothers facing challenges like pre-term labor or high blood pressure.

Furthermore, St. Anthony’s Women and Infants Center staff regularly engage in perinatal drills coordinated by St. John’s South-Central Illinois Perinatal Center to ensure preparedness for any obstetric situation.