Does anyone know if Elmhurst Memorial Hospital in Elmhurst Illinois has a neonatal intensive care unit on site. I am trying to choose between delivering at Elmhurst or Central Dupage Hospital.
I had experience w/both NICU's at each hospital. Hands down CDH is the winner. So much I switched doctors and had my 2nd child there. Facilities are better, doctors are better (CDH uses Children's Memorial Doctors).
I'd recommend touring both (and their websites should let you know if they have a NICU).
Another thing to do is to check with your local children's hospital as to where their local NICU Overflow is. In our area the answer is surprising... but it's because aside from Children's Hospital they have the absolute best NICU in the region, and because they practice the same standards and philosophy as Children's Hosp. does. And believe me, hospitals are PROUD to win the "overflow" position, and they will promote that.
Like hospitals themselves, not all NICUs are equal. Some practice skin to skin as much as possible, down to having beds for the parents to sleep in so that if they choose they can stay with their baby 24/7, and provide hospital grade pumps, and use the tube taped over the breast for feeding... others keep parents out with a 10' pole. When you're touring the hospitals, if NICU is a probability or possibility (multiples, high risk, genetic disorder, etc.) I'd strongly urge you to also tour their NICU facilities.
Unless you are high risk or know that your baby will have problems at birth there is no need to deliver in a hospital with a NICU. Make the best decision and give birth at home. Best thing I ever did.
Lisa
Elmhurst Hospital does have a Specialty Care Nursery. My first son spent 22 days there four years ago. I think they send the babies that need additional help over to Loyola.
CDH is the very BEST in the area..Go there.
You can tour both hospitals before you make a decision...
I've had 3 children at Elmhurst and loved it there! My daughter was born with premature lung disease and spent her first week in the NICU there. They were awesome with her. The NICU doctor on staff is the Loyola NICU dr. too. Not sure when you are due but the new hospital is opening in 2011 sometime, they are rebuilding the hospital. I don't know about CDH, but loved Elmhurst! And now live 25 miles away and still go there for anything I need for my family!
Call them both and set up a tour of the birthing facilities.
