Thanks to generous donors, OHSU Health Hillsboro Medical Center added a much-needed OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital pediatric and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to the hospital in Hillsboro, opened in summer 2020!
For many families, not having a NICU, advanced obstetrics and in-patient pediatric services, meant seeking care elsewhere, often outside of the community where their support network is strongest. Before the NICU was built, many babies were transferred to OHSU Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland on Marquam Hill, and many expecting moms drove past the Hillsboro hospital to deliver.
The new unit located on the second floor of the hospital allows board-certified pediatric physicians and pediatric trained support staff to care for ill children and moderately sick newborns.
The level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Hillsboro Medical Center offers:
- Attentive care around the clock, with a nurse for every two or three patients.
- A private, individual room for you and your baby.
- A nurturing, family-centered environment that involves you in your baby’s care.
- Access to OHSU’s world-class specialists in neonatal care.
- Care closer to home, family and your support network.
Why do babies come to the NICU?
If your newborn needs care after birth, you’re not alone. About 10% of newborns require this advanced level of treatment. The most common reasons they come to our Level II NICU are:
- Premature birth: Infants who are born early (typically 32 weeks or later) with non-serious health issues.
- Mildly to Moderately ill: Newborn babies who have health issues including jaundice, minor breathing problems and feeding challenges.
- Smaller babies: Specialized support for smaller babies including twins and triplets.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, including how you can help support this project, please contact Maria McCandless at maria.mccandless@tuality.org or 503-681-1564.