You and your baby will receive the highest level of care available in Wisconsin in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), just in case your baby is born with a complex medical problem or requires surgery.

A promise of expert care

Mothers and babies admitted to the 26-bed NICU at American Family Children’s Hospital come from near and far. Whether you live hours away or in the Madison Area, you and your baby will receive the most attentive expert care in the region from our experts in neonatology, pediatric surgery and every pediatric specialty. In many cases, our pediatric/neonatal critical care transport team (ground and air) brings babies to the NICU because every minute is precious.

A UW Health nurse smiling in front of a background of greenery

Information for Physicians

If you need transport arranged for a baby from your hospital to the Level IV or Level III NICU in Madison, or need to consult with a UW Health neonatologist or maternal-fetal medicine specialist, call the Access Center at (608) 263-3260 or (800) 472-0111 anytime day or night.

Refer a Patient

The Level IV designation means our NICU has the most advanced team of experts and equipment available to provide the best chance for healing and maximum comfort for the sickest babies and their families during a stressful time. American Family Children’s Hospital is home to one of just two Level IV NICUs in Wisconsin. We also partner closely with UnityPoint Health – Meriter’s Level III NICU, located just a few miles down the road in Madison.

Take a virtual tour of our NICU

Helpful advice from other parents

These parents who spent time in the NICU share their stories and tips:

Patient storiesMason's Mom: Kally shares their story

Watch Video

Virtual visiting

Whereby mothers who still are in their birthing hospital can see their baby on a screen.

Milk lab

A “milk lab” where dedicated milk technicians mix, store and maintain milk for each baby to ensure optimal growth. Milk sources include mother’s breast milk, donated breast milk and formula.

Healing environment

A healing environment featuring special design features to minimize sounds, as well as flexible lighting options and soothing colors to promote healing and protect your baby’s developing brain.