NICU Verification Program Frequently Asked Questions

The AAP is the leading authority in neonatal verification, having developed the standards for each level of neonatal care as outlined in the AAP Policy Statement, "Levels of Neonatal Care”, the AAP book, Guidelines for Perinatal Care, and the "Standards for Levels of Neonatal Care: II, III, & IV". Participating in the AAP NICU verification process helps your facility elevate the quality of care by obtaining an objective, collaborative, and consultative review of your facility’s personnel and resources by leading experts in neonatal care.

Child health. The lack of standardized or state-specific risk-appropriate neonatal care policies is a barrier to the delivery of consistent, high-quality neonatal care. By establishing and implementing risk-appropriate neonatal care standards, the NICU Verification Program believes that the AAP will improve neonatal outcomes by ensuring that every baby receives care in a facility with the personnel and resources appropriate for the newborn’s needs and condition. Furthermore, the "Standards for Levels of Neonatal Care: II, III, & IV" will elevate the national level of neonatal care by achieving equitable and standardize care for all newborns which will positively impact the morbidity and mortality of the nation’s most vulnerable population.

The AAP NICU Verification Program is the leading authority in neonatal verification, having developed the standards for each level of neonatal care as outlined in the "Standards for Levels of Neonatal Care: II, III, & IV". The NICU Verification Program prides itself on its collaborative approach and strives to optimize neonatal care through an objective and consultative review of your facility’s personnel and resources by leading experts in neonatal care.

The AAP is open to reviewing facilities in other states and having conversations with state leaders about improving neonatal systems of care and supporting perinatal regionalization.

NICU verification surveys can be conducted virtually, on-site, or hybrid. The neonatal verification survey will consist of interviews with key facility personnel, record reviews, unit tours, credentialing review, and analysis of NICU-specific quality and patient safety initiatives.

Fees are based on the level of survey requested (Level II, III, or IV) and the organization responsible for verifying the facility’s level of neonatal care. Please contact the NICU Verification Program for information about fees.

Questions can be directed to the NICU Verification Team.