Pikeville Medical Center (PMC) is proud to announce the arrival of a state-of-the-art NICU Transporter, made possible by the generous support of the WHAS Crusade for Children grant. This critical addition to the PMC Level II Advanced Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) will ensure that even its smallest and most vulnerable patients receive the lifesaving care they need, no matter where they are in the region.

PMC’s NxtGen Transport Incubator from International Biomedical, the first model of transport incubator of its kind purchased in Kentucky, is equipped with the most recent advancements in NICU transport technology. With an array of advanced features, including smart thermoregulation, a heated mattress and extended battery life, the NxtGen is an all-inclusive solution for ground and air transport incubation. It is customized with the integrated Hamilton neonatal ventilator and Philips cardiac monitor, ensuring all necessary data is readily accessible through the NxtGen Transport Incubator. With temperature regulation, monitoring capabilities and advanced life support systems, this transporter ensures that neonatal patients are in the safest hands when transported to PMC’s NICU.

“Having advanced medical equipment like the NICU Transporter is crucial in providing the highest level of care for our most vulnerable patients here in Eastern Kentucky. This advanced state-of-the-art transporter allows us to safely transfer newborns who require specialized medical attention, ensuring they receive timely and critical care to and from the hospital,” said Dr. Myla Santiago, PMC Neonatologist. “Being the first in the state to acquire this latest edition of the NICU Transporter is a significant step forward for PMC. It reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class healthcare right here at home.”

For the tiniest patients, time is of the essence. The new NICU Transporter is designed to provide the highest level of care during transport, maintaining the delicate balance required for neonates needing specialized medical attention.

“The arrival of the NICU Transporter is a significant milestone for us,” said Donovan Blackburn, Chairman, President and CEO of Pikeville Medical Center. “This equipment allows us to provide continuous, specialized care during critical moments of transport and reinforces our commitment to giving every child the best chance at life, no matter how small.”

The new NICU Transporter meets the highest standards of care and is a testament to PMC’s dedication to providing the best possible outcomes for our patients. “We are deeply grateful to the WHAS Crusade for Children for their support,” said Tondra Polly, Director of PMC Neonatal Services. “This transporter is not just a piece of equipment; it’s a lifeline for our most fragile patients. It ensures that every infant we care for has the best chance to thrive, and we are honored to be able to offer this level of care to our community.”