Neonatologist Profiles

What is a Neonatologist?

Although your pediatrician can solve most health problems of newborns, a Neonatologist is trained specifically to handle the most complex and high-risk situations.

If your newborn is premature, or has a serious illness, injury, or birth defect, a neonatologist may assist at the time of delivery and in the subsequent care of your newborn. If a problem is identified before your baby is born, a neonatologist may become involved to consult with your obstetrician in your baby’s care during your pregnancy.

What Kind of Training Do Neonatologists Have?

Neonatologists are medical doctors who have had

• At least 4 years of medical school

• Three years of residency training in general pediatrics

• Three years of additional training in newborn intensive care

• Certification from the American Board of Pediatrics and by the Sub-board of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine

What Types of Treatments Do Neonatologists Provide?

Neonatologists generally provide the following care:

• Diagnose and treat newborns with conditions such as breathing disorders, infections, and birth defects.

• Coordinate care and medically manage newborns born premature, critically ill, or in need of surgery.

• Ensure that critically ill newborns receive the proper nutrition for healing and growth.

• Provide care to the newborn at a cesarean or other delivery that involves medical problems in the mother or baby that may compromise the infant’s health and require medical intervention in the delivery room.

• Stabilize and treat newborns with any life-threatening medical problems.

• Consult with obstetricians, pediatricians, and family physicians about conditions affecting newborn infants.