By 2017, on the back of the opioid crisis, the rate of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in the U.S. was estimated to have reached 7.3 per 1000 deliveries. Meanwhile, many newborns exposed to opioids in utero never develop the syndrome and must undergo needless monitoring in the hospital after birth.

One of two commonly used oximetry devices failed to detect low oxygen levels in 7% of patients with the darkest skin tone.

The milestone surgery resulted from collaboration and exemplifies a generational shift taking place in pediatric surgery.

Nearly half (47%) of Tennessee children had public health insurance (TennCare or CoverKids) in 2024. This was the same percentage as private insurance (47%) and an increase from previous years of the poll.

With only a few months on the job, “Vee Vee” as she is affectionately called, is already in high demand and quickly adapting to her work environment.

The initiative seeks to eliminate barriers and foster a safe, judgment-free space for families, employees and community members.

Cross spent her entire career dedicated to helping lay the foundation locally and nationally to solidify child life specialists as part of the health care team.