On December 17, 2024, dozens of mothers and their infants made the significant move to the newly constructed Ascension St. Vincent Women and Infants Hospital. This transition involved 76 patients, predominately from the neonatal intensive care unit, who were transported by ambulance from the former hospital to the new facility located adjacent to Peyton Manning Children's Hospital.
Hospital officials reported the successful move, which signifies a major step forward for maternal and infant healthcare services across the state. Dan Parod, President of Ascension St. Vincent Central Region, noted, "We have probably 400 to 500 people helping with the move today," highlighting the extensive logistics and support involved.
The new facility encompasses 268,000 square feet dedicated to enhancing patient care. This includes 109 private NICU rooms, providing enhanced privacy for families during their most vulnerable times. The hospital boasts state-of-the-art amenities such as an OB emergency department, lactation support services, and even two laboring tubs, fostering individualized care during childbirth. Parod emphasized its significance, saying, "We are a Level IV para-natal center, only one of two in the state, so this new hospital is a state-of-the-art hospital."
Julie Schnieders, Vice President of St. Vincent Women's Services North Region, remarked on the long-anticipated move: "It's been a long time coming. We offer continuity of care, having moms here with their families. If a baby would need help at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital, we have the next door." This continuity is pivotal, as it allows families to remain together during challenging times.
One poignant story came from Madison Schacht, who gave birth nearly two months before her due date and was among those relocating. “There are no words, just knowing I can be here with her,” she expressed. The emotional weight of her experience was evident as she described the joy of being able to keep her daughter close after the unexpected birth. "It's just nice to know I don’t have to leave her at the end of every day," Schacht said. Such sentiments reflect the overwhelming relief many families felt during this transition, as they adapt to the new facility and its offerings.
Funding for this significant development was aided by donations from the Ascension St. Vincent Foundation’s Care for Tomorrow campaign and support from former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. This new hospital is part of a larger $325 million expansion of the Ascension St. Vincent campus, which will also include the opening of the Ascension St. Vincent Brain and Spine Hospital later this year.
The new Ascension St. Vincent Women and Infants Hospital stands as not just another healthcare facility, but as a comprehensive center providing the highest level of care for mothers and their infants. Locally, it symbolizes hope and growth within the community, emphasizing a commitment to both modern healthcare standards and family values. With its advanced capabilities and focus on patient-centered care, it is expected to positively impact countless families throughout Indiana for years to come.