Houston Methodist West Hospital received designation as a Level III neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

 

To receive the designation, the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at West underwent a comprehensive review of its capabilities, protocols and policies. As part of the process, a survey team conducted a site visit, interviewed NICU staff and reviewed case files. The state determined that the hospital has the expertise to provide comprehensive care and specialty management for fetal complications.

 

“Receiving designation as a Level III NICU confirms our commitment to providing the highest level of care and safety for all our patients,” said Vicki Brownewell, vice president and chief nursing officer at Houston Methodist West.

 

A Level III NICU is capable of providing care for premature babies born at all gestational ages who can weigh less than 1,500 grams, as well as critically ill newborns who require specialized medical treatment. Level III nurseries have a wide variety of staff on-site including neonatologist and neonatal nurse practitioners.

 

“We are proud to increase the scope and level of care for mothers and babies in our community,” said Dr. Maria Carlos, medical director of the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at West. “Our Level III NICU capabilities allow us to keep mothers and babies together while they receive care which helps decrease parental stress and anxiety.”

 

The Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at West is a full-service birthing facility providing antenatal, labor, delivery, postpartum and neonatal care. The Childbirth Center provides family-centered care and support for expectant mothers in a comfortable, convenient location close to home.