Nemours Children’s Hospital Initiates Maternal and Fetal Health Program to Enhance Local Care Access
Nemours Children’s Hospital has announced the launch of a new Institute for Maternal-Fetal Health, aimed at providing specialized care for families facing complex fetal diagnoses. Set to begin operations in early 2026 at the hospital’s flagship facility in Wilmington, Delaware, the institute seeks to deliver advanced medical services closer to home for families whose situations often necessitate long-distance travel to larger metropolitan hospitals.
This initiative addresses a pressing need in the region, as families dealing with severe fetal conditions, including congenital heart disease, metabolic disorders, and genetic anomalies often face logistical and emotional burdens. Historically, these families may have had to travel significant distances to receive appropriate care—from Philadelphia to New York City—creating additional hardships in an already challenging time. With the establishment of the Maternal-Fetal Health Institute, Nemours aims to alleviate these pressures by delivering comprehensive prenatal and postnatal care locally.
One of the key components of the new institute is the provision of in utero surgeries. These advanced procedures seek to correct debilitating birth defects before a child is born, such as spina bifida, which involves a failure of the spinal column to close completely. This innovative approach not only improves the immediate health prospects of newborns but also supports the parents during a daunting period of their lives.
Through this program, Nemours is committed to offering a holistic approach to maternal-fetal care by providing educational resources aimed at supporting families. Recognizing that a fetal diagnosis can shift parental emotions from joy to anxiety, the institute plans to incorporate services that assist not only the mothers and infants but also other family members—including siblings—who may be affected by the situation.
As Julie S. Moldenhauer, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and the institute’s inaugural executive director, aptly underscores, “Our biggest impetus is to help families stay closer to home.” The medical community’s growing awareness of the mental health implications associated with complex pregnancies has prompted an inclusive and family-centered approach at the institute. Support groups for grandparents, informational sessions geared toward siblings, and psychological services for couples navigating the challenges of a complex pregnancy will be integral components of the care model.
In alignment with its commitment to enhancing healthcare access, Nemours Children’s Hospital is expanding its facilities to include three new operating rooms designated for cesarean sections, complicated deliveries, and fetal surgeries. Additionally, the institute will feature expanded patient rooms and neonatal stabilization areas for infants requiring intensive support immediately after birth. A wellness room will also be established to provide families with a space for meals, play, and therapeutic activities.
In a broader context, the launch of the Maternal-Fetal Health Institute can be seen as part of Nemours’ strategic growth in pediatric healthcare, particularly following the recent acquisition of pediatric offices previously run by Crozer Health. This move signifies both a commitment to expanding quality care in Delaware and the importance of accessible, advanced maternal and child healthcare in today’s medical landscape.
As healthcare systems increasingly recognize the significance of integrating family support with clinical care, Nemours Children’s Hospital’s initiative represents a forward-thinking model for addressing the complex needs of expectant families facing challenging diagnoses.
