Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Braselton is the first hospital
in the state to have an official Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) officially designated by the
Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The designation is based on the national standards from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
Although NGMC Braselton has operated as a Level II NICU since receiving state
approval back in 2016, this new designation formally validates that the unit meets or exceeds
nationally established standards for risk‑appropriate neonatal care.
“Families in our growing community deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing
advanced neonatal care is available close to home,” said Kevin Matson, vice president of
regional hospitals at Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS). “This designation reflects our
ongoing investment in specialized staff, technology and services that support healthy beginnings
for every baby.”
This achievement follows NGMC Gainesville’s official designation as a Level III NICU
last fall, further strengthening NGHS’ regional network of neonatal services and ensuring
families across the area have access to the right level of care at the right time.
“Receiving this designation is a significant milestone for our organization and for the
families we serve,” said Brittany Smith, DNP, RN, director of NICU at NGHS. “It validates the
exceptional work of our neonatal team and reinforces our dedication to ensuring that babies born
in our community have access to the specialized care they need close to home.”
