Pocono News Section

Geisinger Breaks Ground on NICU in Luzerne Co.

Geisinger Breaks Ground on NICU in Luzerne Co. - Tuesday, June 15, 2010 at 04:05AM EST

Reported by: Mike Trim
Tuesday June 15 2010

PLAINS TWP., LUZERNE COUNTY -- Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center broke ground today on a 12-bed neonatal intensive care unit.

One in ten babies will require care from a neonatal intensive care unit. Geisinger Health System officials say that need is clear here in this area.

It's building the first neonatal intensive care unit in Luzerne County. Glenn Steele, President of Geisinger Health System said, "It means we can take care of 125 babies that otherwise would have to be life flighted to Danville. every minute counts with these premies."

The unit will include 12 neonatal beds. That's where doctors can provide care for babies born prematurely and with other challenges.

Quickly treating those challenges is crucial. Steven Pierdon, Geisinger Northeast Chief Medical Officer, said, "The first hours and minutes after birth for those premature infants that's when the most intense and most aggressive care needs to be provided. It decreases their length of stay and morbitity afterwards."

It's estimated this unit will care for 125 babies each year. This project will also feature 15 private beds for unique women's healthcare, like post labor treatment.