Texas Children’s Hospital in The Woodlands Achieves Prestigious Level IV NICU Certification
On April 2, 2023, Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands announced an important milestone in neonatal care, becoming the first hospital in The Woodlands area to achieve certification as a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) by the Texas Department of State Health Services. This designation represents the highest level of accreditation available for neonatal facilities, underscoring the hospital’s commitment to providing exceptional care for critically ill newborns.
According to the Texas Health and Human Services website, there are currently 24 hospitals in Texas that hold the Level IV designation, with four located in the greater Houston region. The accreditation process involves rigorous assessments conducted by the Texas HHS Perinatal Advisory Council, which evaluates hospitals on a quarterly basis based on the range of services offered and the complexity of care that they provide to neonates.
The achievement of this certification is attributed to “significant collaboration among NICU leadership, staff, and supporting services,” as highlighted in the hospital’s announcement. The comprehensive support staff includes specialists in pharmacy, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, lactation, nutrition, and social services, all working together to improve outcomes for vulnerable infants.
Texas Children’s Hospital in The Woodlands is equipped with 14 NICU beds, offering a wide array of treatment services. These services cater to premature births, genetic anomalies, and complex surgical needs. An innovative feature of the NICU is its 24/7 camera access for parents, providing peace of mind and facilitating virtual engagement with their newborns.
Ketrese White, president of Texas Children’s Hospital The Woodlands, emphasized the significance of this designation, stating that “this designation signifies to families in north Houston that Texas Children’s The Woodlands has the resources and expertise to care for the most complex neonatal cases.” She further noted that the establishment of a Level IV NICU will allow families access to top-tier treatment without the burden of long-distance travel for care.
Juanna Brandon, director of Patient Care Services, articulated the emotional strain often associated with NICU admissions. She remarked, “A NICU admission can be especially hard on parents because they are separated from their baby, which is why it’s incredibly valuable for families to have this level of care out in their community.” Brandon highlighted the developmental benefits for infants when parents can maintain regular engagement, making the closer proximity of the NICU a vital factor in promoting family cohesion during critical times.
This advancement represents a significant enhancement in neonatal care for families in The Woodlands and surrounding areas, solidifying Texas Children’s commitment to maintaining high standards of healthcare and accessibility. This certification not only underscores the hospital’s resources but also represents a vital community asset, benefitting families navigating the challenges of neonatal health concerns.
