In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the challenges facing the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at a local hospital, which currently operates with an average daily census of three to four patients. The facility reports approximately 1,000 births annually, with nearly all patient transfers directed to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC).

A significant topic of discussion was the upcoming retirement of a long-standing neonatologist, effective August 28. The physician provided a 45-day notice prior to the retirement, prompting concerns about staffing levels in the NICU. The last time the unit had more than one neonatologist was over two years ago, when a physician relocated to Minnesota for family reasons.

Efforts to recruit new staff have been ongoing for two years, with officials exploring the use of locum tenens—temporary physicians—to fill the gap. However, the financial implications are considerable, with estimates suggesting a cost of over $130,000 per month to employ locum neonatologists. The hospital is currently evaluating this option as a contingency plan to ensure continued care for its patients.

The meeting underscored the critical need for staffing solutions in the NICU, particularly as the facility maintains its status as a level three care provider, which requires a robust team of specialists to manage complex cases.