We investigated actual conditions and needs of maternal and neonatal
transportation in Nara Medical University Hospital, Prefectural Nara Hospital, and
National Nara Hospital in the period 1996.4-1997.3. Approximately 25% of the cases
were transported to other facilities in other prefectures. We estimate that the number of
cases requiring admission to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) was about 270 in this
period. If all the cases go to one facility, we need 31 beds in NICU. As a result of our
investigation, more than 12 beds of NICU are needed in Nara Medical University Hospital,
or Prefectural Nara Hospital. Efforts to develop perinatal medical care system in Nara
Prefecture are necessary
