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 April 2, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to advanced neonatal care. 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 brings together a highly trained 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, NICU Transport Team medical director. "STORK allows us to bring advanced neonatal expertise directly to patients and safely transport them to the highest level of care."

STORK operates in partnership with Saint Thomas Emergency Medical Services, combining advanced transport capabilities with clinical excellence to elevate neonatal care across the community.

"STORK reflects our deep commitment to delivering 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.