Since Katrina: neonatal and pediatric issues from both sides of the levee.

About the author: I joined the staff of the Ochsner Clinic in 1987 as a neonatologist, and I am currently the section head of neonatal medicine and medical director of the Ochsner Foundation Hospital’s level III regional NICU. As a member of team A, it was my responsibility to run the NICU in the event of any disaster. I was in the Ochsner NICU in the days that led up to, during, and for the 9 days after Hurricane Katrina. With the departure of half of our neonatology staff over the ensuing 12 months, my partner and I were responsible for resurrecting our unit and providing care for up to 42 infants. Since that time, the staff now consists of 5 full-time neonatologists who provide care for neonates in 3 NICUs in the New Orleans area.