CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Kasturba Medical College (KMC) and Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, have been awarded the prestigious Level III-B accreditation by the National Neonatology Forum (NNF) for its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This is the highest level of accreditation granted to NICUs in India, recognizing excellence in care for critically ill and premature infants. The award highlights the hospital’s commitment to providing world-class neonatal care, placing it among an elite group of only 15 hospitals across India with this distinction.
The Level III-B accreditation is granted after a rigorous evaluation process, which inspects a facility’s infrastructure, manpower, equipment, and clinical protocols to ensure the highest standards of care are consistently maintained. This recognition signifies that Kasturba Hospital’s NICU meets the stringent requirements necessary to provide exceptional care for newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with critical health conditions. Out of the nearly 250 accredited NICUs across India, only 15 have achieved this esteemed Level III-B status. Kasturba Hospital’s NICU is the first teaching medical college hospital in Karnataka to receive this honor and only the second unit in the state to attain such a high level of recognition.
Kasturba Hospital’s NICU has a 42-bed capacity and is equipped with the latest technology to provide advanced care for sick and premature newborns, including those born as early as 24 weeks gestation and weighing as little as 500 grams. The NICU team, led by Dr. (Surg VAdm Retd) Sheila S Mathai, is comprised of six neonatal consultants and 55 specially trained nurses, all dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care. The hospital’s NICU also boasts outstanding clinical outcomes for premature and critically ill infants, reinforcing its position as a center of excellence in neonatal care.
Kasturba Hospital is also home to the Manipal Matri Amrit Milk Bank, the first human milk bank in Udupi District, which further supports the care and nutritional needs of vulnerable newborns. Additionally, the Department of Neonatology at Kasturba Hospital is approved by the National Medical Council to conduct a DM Neonatology program, offering three seats annually. This program plays a vital role in advancing neonatal healthcare education and training, contributing to the development of future neonatologists.
