Ascension Saint Thomas has launched Saint Thomas On Call Response for Kids, or STORK, a dedicated Neonatal Intensive Care Unit transport service designed to provide rapid, specialized care for critically ill and premature newborns across Middle Tennessee.
The service officially went live in the spring and is already providing greater access to advanced neonatal care for families. STORK provides immediate transport for newborns who require Level III NICU care at Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown, ensuring the safest and fastest transition for the region’s smallest and most vulnerable patients.
The program unites a team of neonatologists, respiratory therapists, NICU registered nurses, and emergency medical professionals. The transport team operates specialized mobile intensive care environments designed specifically for newborns.
"This service strengthens our ability to deliver life-saving care when minutes matter most," said Dr. Logan Key, medical director of the NICU Transport Team. "STORK allows us to bring advanced neonatal expertise directly to newborns and safely transport them to the highest level of care."
The STORK service operates 24/7 through Saint Thomas Emergency Medical Services (STEMS) fleet of ambulances and emergency technicians, ensuring constant availability for neonatal emergencies. Since its launch, the team has completed six transports for infants born within the Ascension Saint Thomas system.
"There is nothing more vulnerable than a NICU baby," said Dr. Key. "Our team undergoes hours of additional training to provide life-saving care right away. Parents trust us with their children, and safeguarding those lives is our highest priority."
NICU volumes have increased 20 percent over the last five years, ensuring Ascension Saint Thomas can reach patients when they need care the most.
“Through the STORK program we are able to deliver high-quality care to families and their newborns when they need it most,” said Dr. Shubhada Jagasia, CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital. “As home to the largest women's hospital in Tennessee, we are committed to ensuring mothers and babies have access to the specialized care they need. This program expands access to critical neonatal services across Middle Tennessee, connecting vulnerable newborns with expert Level III NICU care and helping improve outcomes for families across the region.”
For more information about neonatal services and our birthing center, visit Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown.
