Few moments are more challenging for a parent than learning their newborn needs specialized medical care. In those early days, families need expert support, compassionate guidance and a calm space that helps them stay close to their baby.
That’s the vision behind the new neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at
Wellstar Kennestone Regional Medical Center,
part of the hospital’s
Yellow Tower expansion.
The next-generation unit combines advanced care, thoughtful design and a strong focus on family connection.
“The new NICU at Wellstar Kennestone provides more than advanced technology,” said
Dr. Carrie Stinson,
Wellstar chief of pediatrics. “It allows us to deliver the highest level of neonatal care close to home, so parents can focus on what matters most—being present for their babies during the most critical moments of their lives.”
Family-centered design
The new 49-bed NICU uses advanced monitoring technology to support babies who need intensive care, including those born early or facing medical challenges. As a high-volume, high-acuity Level III NICU, the care team is experienced in caring for newborns with a range of needs.
Beyond clinical care, the unit was designed with families in mind. Spacious rooms, natural light and a calming color palette create a more peaceful environment for babies and parents.
“This new design helps transform the NICU experience from something that can feel overwhelming into one that is more supportive, more personal and more centered around the family,” said
Dr. Amanda M. Evans,
Wellstar neonatal medical director and NICU medical director at Wellstar Kennestone.
One of the most meaningful features is the unit’s six couplet care rooms, where mothers and babies can remain together after delivery when medically appropriate.
“It allows the care team to support both patients together, creating stronger bonds and better outcomes—which is truly at the heart of what we are trying to achieve,” Dr. Evans said.
Personalized nutrition for the smallest patients
The NICU also includes an innovative milk lab—a centralized pharmacy that prepares fortified human milk, donor milk and prescribed formulas. The dedicated space helps ensure precise nutrition for newborns who need tailored feeding plans.
“One of the most important advances is the ability to analyze breast milk for its nutritional content,” Dr. Evans said. “Every mother’s milk is unique. With this technology, we can better understand what every baby is receiving and make individualized adjustments when needed.”
For families, the milk lab offers confidence in every feeding. It gives the care team advanced tools to deliver personalized nutrition with the highest standards of safety.
Expanding access to advanced neonatal care
As one of Georgia’s most trusted hospitals for women’s and children’s services, Wellstar Kennestone continues to invest in pediatric care. The new NICU expands access to specialized neonatal services across Cobb County and Metro Atlanta—so parents can find exceptional care without traveling far.
“Every baby in the NICU deserves the most advanced care from the very first breath,” said Varma Rameswar, vice president of pediatric operations and service line at Wellstar. “We’re redefining what’s possible in neonatal care by providing leading-edge support for every baby and every family.”
Learn more about neonatology services at Wellstar.
