Leaving the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) marks a significant transition for families as they move from a highly structured medical environment to the complexities of home life. Effective discharge planning plays a crucial role in preparing parents to meet their baby's medical, nutritional, and emotional needs while fostering confidence and readiness [1]. Beyond emergency care, parents must feel equipped to handle their baby’s daily needs, including hygiene, safe sleep, and nutrition – not only knowing what to feed their baby but also how to feed them effectively. Comprehensive education on these aspects, along with guidance on safe medication delivery (if needed) and emergency care, provides a strong foundation for this critical phase [2].

Follow-up care remains essential for monitoring growth, addressing developmental milestones, and managing ongoing medical, psychological, and social needs [3]. A multidisciplinary team – including pediatricians, community nurses, therapists, and social workers – helps ensure continuity of care and personalized support for families adjusting to life at home [4]. Innovations like telemedicine and mobile health applications increasingly bridge gaps in care, offering practical solutions for families worldwide [1].

Growing up after a NICU stay often presents unique challenges. Some children experience developmental delays or ongoing health issues that require continued support [5]. Therefore, early intervention programs play a critical role in improving outcomes, helping children born preterm or with serious illnesses, low birth weight, or other complications thrive as they grow into adolescence and adulthood [6].

Globally, disparities in healthcare access create additional hurdles for families, especially in low-resource settings [7]. Many families struggle with inequitable care – or lack access to healthcare altogether – leaving newborns without essential medical support. Social determinants such as poverty, limited education, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure further exacerbate these challenges, underscoring the need for tailored interventions and community-based support systems [8]. Addressing these barriers remains essential to ensuring equitable care for all babies who have required neonatal care, including those born preterm or with serious medical conditions.