UAMS and Arkansas Children’s Hospital

The neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) at both the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children’s Hospital have specially trained staff to care for your premature or sick baby. Both hospitals are dedicated to making sure your child gets safe, compassionate, high-quality care. Parents are an important part of the team at both hospitals. Ask about the best way to help take part in your baby’s care.

Why does my baby need to transfer?

UAMS and ACH both have outstanding NICUs. ACH is the only level 4 NICU in Arkansas, and there are specially trained doctors and surgeons at ACH who can help babies who need certain procedures. ACH also has whole body cooling and ECMO to provide heart and lung bypass support outside the baby’s body. Babies who will need follow-up care after they leave the NICU may also be transferred to ACH so they can begin care with their team of providers.

Where will we stay?

UAMS has all private rooms with space for two adults to stay with each baby. ACH has a limited number of private rooms available for patients closer to discharge. There is limited space for personal belongings at ACH, so please bring only the basics you’ll need for your stay. For longer stays, please talk with a care manager about staying at the UAMS Family Home or the Ronald McDonald House.

Is there someone I can talk to?

Doctors, nurses, and social workers at both hospitals can talk with you about services for you and your family and ways you can help your baby. ACH also has patient care managers, child life specialists, other support staff and parent mentors who can answer many of your questions.
At UAMS, your nurse, patient educators and care managers are available to answer any questions. The two hospitals both welcome families to be with their babies. Please ask at the front desk or talk with your nurse about specific questions.