Expert Care for Our Tiniest Patients
At UC Medical Center, our Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is the region’s first and most experienced. As a Level III facility, our NICU is fully equipped to care for the most critically ill or premature babies, whether their need for advanced care is expected or comes as a surprise.
Our team understands that every newborn and situation is unique. That’s why we bring together experts from a variety of specialties to develop personalized care plans, improving outcomes for your baby. With a family-centered approach, we prioritize involving and supporting families throughout the NICU journey, because we know how important the family unit is to a baby’s well-being.
Our NICU team is nationally recognized for delivering exceptional outcomes and setting the standard for neonatal care.
Delivering Excellence—Recognized Across the Nation
Families across the region trust UC Medical Center not only for our expertise—but for our proven excellence. We’re proud to be recognized at the highest levels for the quality, safety and outcomes of our maternity and NICU care:
- U.S. News & World Report’s 2024–25 ‘Best Maternity Hospital’
- Named a ‘Birthing-Friendly’ Hospital by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (2023 & 2024)
- High Performing in Maternity Care – U.S. News & World Report (2023–24)
- Mama Certified leader in maternal, infant and community care
- First and only Level IV maternity hospital in Greater Cincinnati
- First in Ohio and among just 34 hospitals nationwide to be certified in Perinatal Care by The Joint Commission
These designations mean we are equipped to handle even the most complex pregnancies and births, with the highest standards in safety, outcomes and patient experience. For your family, that means peace of mind—and expert care every step of the way.
Experienced, Specialized Care
Caring for critically ill and premature newborns requires more than medical expertise—it takes a true team effort. At UC Medical Center, your baby is cared for by a team of specialists working together to provide comprehensive, individualized care.
In addition to our neonatologists and highly trained NICU nurses, your care team may include dedicated:
- Pharmacists
- Nutrition specialists
- Occupational and physical therapists
- Lactation consultants
- Social workers
Together, this team collaborates daily to ensure every aspect of your baby’s health—and your family’s well-being—is supported throughout your NICU journey.
Leaders in Innovation: What It Means for You and Your Baby
UC Medical Center is home to the region’s first and most experienced Level III NICUs. Backed by the academic strength of the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, we are at the forefront of neonatal research, discovering better treatments and advancing technology to help newborns thrive.
To us, innovation isn’t just a term—it’s a commitment to providing the best possible care for your baby. For families, this means:
- Better Breathing Support for Preterm Babies: Our advanced respiratory care technologies help newborns breathe more easily, giving them a stronger start to life.
- Proven Treatments with a Legacy of Success: Our NICU played a key role in groundbreaking surfactant studies over 20 years ago, research that has since saved countless lives by improving lung function in premature infants.
- Access to the Latest Advances: As part of an academic medical center, we’re constantly exploring new ways to treat and care for critically ill babies. This means your child benefits from the most current, evidence-based medical breakthroughs.
A Journey Supported by Family and Community
We know having a baby in the NICU can feel overwhelming. That’s why we partner with the Friends of Tiny Hearts, a group of dedicated NICU staff and parents who’ve been through the NICU journey themselves. We’re also proud to be Cincinnati’s only hospital offering the March of Dimes Family Support Program, connecting families to the resources, guidance and encouragement they need every step of the way.
Your baby’s safety is our top priority. Our NICU uses secure access and rigorous infection prevention practices to ensure a safe environment. Visitors are coached on proper hygiene, and parents are welcomed to participate in daily rounds with the care team.
At UC Medical Center’s NICU, we’re not just caring for your baby—we’re supporting your entire family during this critical time. We celebrate the moments that matter most—like when families take their little ones home from the NICU. Our commitment to compassionate care and exceptional outcomes is why we’re trusted by families throughout the region.
If you’d like to learn more about our NICU or speak to a member of our team, please reach out—we’re here to support you and your family during this challenging yet remarkable time.
Contact Us
UC Medical Center
3188 Bellevue Ave., Third Floor
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-584-LADY (5239)