NICU

The American Academy of Pediatrics classifies Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) into four levels. As the highest level of care available in our region, our Level III NICU provides specialized care for the most premature newborns and critically ill infants. Our NICU is staffed by highly trained neonatologists, nurses, and specialists who are experts in neonatal care and supported by advanced technology for imaging, monitoring, and respiratory support. We are also the only NICU in the state of Montana with neonatology providers on site 24/7, ensuring immediate, around-the-clock care without after-hours delays.

Recognized regionally for exceptional quality, Community Children’s Level III NICU has served thousands of families across Montana and Idaho since 1976. Our 32-bed unit includes flexible room configurations to accommodate twins and triplets. The care team includes board-certified neonatologists, neonatal nurse practitioners, neonatal therapists, NICU-trained respiratory therapists and nurses, as well as a dietitian and social worker. Pediatric subspecialties—including pediatric surgery, gastroenterology, cardiology, and ophthalmology—are readily available.

Our family-centered approach emphasizes developmental care practices such as nesting and skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care. Parents are encouraged to spend as much time as possible with their babies, and rooming-in is available prior to discharge for mothers preparing to take their premature infants home.

Community is a member of the Vermont-Oxford Network, providing access to an international database focused on improving outcomes and quality of care for neonates with birth weights under 1,500 grams. Through this collaboration, Community shares outcome data and maintains mortality rates that are exceptionally low at both the state and national levels.