Best Hospitals to Work for in Delaware
Top Hospitals in Delaware (2025)
1. ChristianaCare
ChristianaCare, headquartered in Newark, is Delaware’s largest health system and has been ranked the No. 1 hospital in the state by U.S. News & World Report for 2024–2025. It is recognized as High Performing in 13 conditions and two procedures, the highest distinction awarded by U.S. News.
In March 2025, ChristianaCare achieved its fourth consecutive Magnet® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), underscoring its sustained excellence in nursing practice.
The health system includes Christiana Hospital in Newark and Wilmington Hospital, along with numerous outpatient and specialty care facilities. ChristianaCare employs over 12,000 staff members, including more than 3,900 nurses and care technicians.
2. Bayhealth
Bayhealth operates two hospitals in Delaware: Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus in Dover, and Bayhealth Hospital, Sussex Campus in Milford. The health system is currently undergoing evaluation for its third Magnet® designation, with a site visit scheduled for April 29 – May 1, 2025.
Bayhealth offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, surgical services, cancer care, and women's and children's health. The organization employs over 4,000 staff members across its facilities.
3. Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware
Located in Wilmington, Nemours Children's Hospital, Delaware is a leading pediatric facility operated by the Nemours Foundation. The hospital has achieved Magnet® recognition and is nationally ranked in nine pediatric specialties, including top 10 placements in Cardiology & Heart Surgery and Orthopedics, according to U.S. News & World Report's 2024–2025 Best Children's Hospitals rankings.
Nemours is also verified as a Level 1 Children's Surgery Center by the American College of Surgeons and has received the Lantern Award from the Emergency Nurses Association for excellence in emergency care. The hospital employs over 4,000 staff members in Delaware and operates more than 95 locations across four states.
What Defines a Leading Hospital in Delaware?
Competitive Compensation and Benefits
In response to the national nursing shortage, Delaware hospitals have enhanced compensation packages to attract and retain healthcare professionals. Beyond competitive salaries, many institutions offer flexible scheduling, generous parental leave, fitness membership reimbursements, and concierge services to support work-life balance.
Professional Development Opportunities
Top hospitals in Delaware invest in their staff's growth by providing tuition reimbursement programs, continuing education opportunities, and clear pathways for career advancement, including support for nurses pursuing advanced practice roles.
Commitment to Patient and Staff Satisfaction
Leading healthcare facilities prioritize both patient and employee satisfaction. Initiatives such as mental health support, effective leadership, and high-quality equipment contribute to a positive work environment, which in turn enhances patient care and satisfaction.
Emphasis on Safety and Ethics
Hospitals in Delaware are committed to maintaining high safety standards and ethical practices. This includes adherence to established safety protocols, investment in advanced technology, and a focus on patient-centered care to ensure the well-being of the communities they serve.
Advancing Your Nursing Career in Delaware
Update Your Resume
Ensure your resume is current, clearly organized, and highlights your education, certifications, and professional experience. Include your contact information at the top and tailor your resume to the specific roles you are applying for.
Join Professional Nursing Associations
Engage with organizations such as the Delaware Nurses Association to network with peers, access professional development resources, and stay informed about industry trends and opportunities.
Attend Conferences and Workshops
Participate in industry conferences and workshops to earn continuing education units (CEUs), expand your professional network, and stay updated on the latest advancements in nursing practice.
Fulfill Continuing Education Requirements
In Delaware, Registered Nurses (RNs) and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) are required to complete 30 contact hours of continuing education every two years, while Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) must complete 24 hours.Ensure you meet these requirements to maintain your licensure.
Explore Job Opportunities
Utilize hospital career pages and national job boards to search for nursing positions in Delaware. Consider creating a profile on platforms that allow hospitals to view your credentials and reach out to you directly.
Transfer Your Nursing License to Delaware
Delaware is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC), allowing nurses with multistate licenses to practice in the state. If you are moving to Delaware and establishing it as your primary residence, you will need to obtain a Delaware multistate license. Advanced Practice Registered Nurses must hold a state-issued APRN license to practice in Delaware.
For more information on nursing opportunities in Delaware and to explore current job openings, visit GoodWork.
