Divisions: Neonatology
The Division of Neonatology is dedicated to delivering advanced, compassionate care for newborns, with particular focus on infants born prematurely or with complex medical conditions. Serving as a regional referral center for northwest Ohio and the greater service area, the division provides comprehensive neonatal care aimed at improving survival and long-term developmental outcomes.
Clinically, the division provides care for critically ill and high-risk infants in a specialized Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Conditions commonly managed include prematurity, respiratory distress, congenital anomalies, neonatal infections, and complications related to high-risk pregnancies. The multidisciplinary care team includes neonatologists, neonatal nurse practitioners, specialized nursing staff, respiratory therapists, and allied health professionals who work collaboratively to deliver individualized, family-centered care. The division maintains strong integration with pediatric subspecialty services at ProMedica Russell J. Ebeid Children’s Hospital to support continuity of care.
Perinatal and neonatal care coordination is a key focus of the division. The team works closely with obstetric providers and maternal-fetal medicine specialists to optimize outcomes before, during, and after delivery. Emphasis is placed on developmental care practices, family engagement, and supportive services that promote bonding and long-term health.
Education and training are central to the division’s mission, with active involvement in teaching medical students and pediatric residents. Educational experiences emphasize evidence-based neonatal care, neonatal resuscitation, and multidisciplinary teamwork within the NICU environment.
Research and quality improvement initiatives support ongoing advancement in neonatal care and outcomes for vulnerable infants. Areas of focus include neonatal respiratory support, nutrition, neurodevelopment, infection prevention, and strategies to reduce complications associated with prematurity.
The division also supports regional neonatal care through outreach initiatives, including neonatal transport services, education, and clinical support for community hospitals. Through integrated clinical care, innovation, and collaboration, the Division of Neonatology is committed to providing high-quality care and an optimal start for newborns and their families.
Additional specialized resources include the Griffin James Hillabrand Milk and Nutrition Lab, a state-of-the-art centralized facility for the safe storage and preparation of human milk in support of neonatal nutrition and growth.
Medical Director
Bonisha Sthapit, M.D., M.P.H.
Clinical Assistant Professor
Division Faculty
Howard M. Stein, M.D.
Clinical Professor
Educational Lead
Holly Brine, M.D.
Clinical Assistant Professor
Patrick Ethington, D.O.
Clinical Assistant Professor
Kristie Hornick, D.O., FAAP
Clinical Assistant Professor
Arnab Sengupta, M.D., M.P.H.
Clinical Assistant Professor
Shawna Shafer, D.O.
Clinical Associate Professor